Ottawa Senators Eye Rasmus Andersson in Blockbuster NHL Trade Rumors

NHL trade rumors: Senators eye blockbuster trade for Flames star Rasmus Andersson

The NHL trade market is starting to simmer, and the Ottawa Senators are turning up the heat. After a promising start to the 2025–26 season fizzled into inconsistency and defensive lapses, GM Steve Staios is shifting from patience to urgency. According to multiple league sources, Ottawa has initiated serious discussions with the Calgary Flames about acquiring star defenseman Rasmus Andersson—a move that could reshape the Senators’ blue line for years to come .

But there’s a catch. This isn’t just a simple asset swap. The entire feasibility of the deal rests on whether Andersson, who is signed through the 2025–26 season with a $4.55M cap hit, would agree to a contract extension with Ottawa. Without that commitment, the Senators risk giving up valuable young assets for a rental player—a gamble Staios has publicly vowed to avoid during this rebuild phase .

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Why the Senators Are All-In on NHL Trade Rumors

Ottawa entered the season with legitimate playoff aspirations, boasting a core of Tim Stützle, Brady Tkachuk, and a maturing defensive group. But injuries, inconsistent goaltending, and a lack of reliable second-pairing defensemen have derailed their momentum. They currently sit outside the Eastern Conference wild-card spots, and time is running out to salvage the year.

Rather than punt on the season entirely, Staios appears to be pursuing a “bridge” strategy: add a proven, high-IQ defenseman who can stabilize the backend while mentoring prospects like Jake Sanderson and Lassi Thomson. In that context, Andersson—a right-shot, two-way defenseman with playoff experience—is the ideal target. This aligns perfectly with Ottawa’s long-term vision: compete now without sacrificing future flexibility.

Rasmus Andersson Profile: Why He Fits Ottawa’s Blueprint

Andersson, 29, has been a mainstay on Calgary’s top pair for nearly half a decade. Known for his elite skating, strong breakout passes, and responsible defensive reads, he logged over 23 minutes per game this season while quarterbacking the Flames’ second power-play unit.

His skill set directly addresses Ottawa’s weaknesses:

  • Right-side depth: Ottawa lacks a true top-four right defenseman; Andersson fills that void instantly.
  • Puck-moving ability: His transition game complements Sanderson’s shutdown style beautifully.
  • Leadership: As a former Flames alternate captain, he brings veteran presence to a young locker room.

In short, he’s not just a rental—he’s a potential cornerstone if retained.

The Extension Hurdle: Will Andersson Commit to Ottawa?

This is the million-dollar question. Andersson is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) after this season. While he’s expressed openness to staying in Calgary, the Flames’ cap crunch and uncertain direction may push him toward a fresh start.

Ottawa, however, offers stability, a rising core, and the chance to be a key voice in a team on the cusp of contention. If they offer a 6-year, $30–36M extension (roughly $5–6M AAV), it could be enough to secure his signature. But if Andersson wants max term or salary, or prefers a sunbelt team, the deal collapses. As one insider put it: “Ottawa won’t trade for him unless the pen is ready.”

What Calgary Wants in Return for Their Defensive Anchor

The Flames aren’t sellers—but they’re pragmatic. With a flat cap and several RFAs to re-sign (including Jakob Pelletier and Connor Zary), they may entertain offers if the return accelerates their next window.

Ottawa’s tradeable assets include:

  • First-round picks (2026, 2027): Ottawa holds its own plus potential extra picks via prior deals.
  • Prospects: Ridly Greig, Roby Järventie, or Mavrik Bourque could intrigue Calgary.
  • NHL-ready players: Travis Dermott or Egor Sokolov might be included to match salaries.

Expect Calgary to demand at least a first-rounder and a top-50 prospect for a player of Andersson’s caliber.

Competing Interest: Other Teams in the Andersson Sweepstakes

Ottawa isn’t alone. Sources confirm that the Minnesota Wild, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs have also inquired about Andersson. Each offers different appeals:

  1. Minnesota: Contender status and Bruce Boudreau’s system suit his style.
  2. Rangers: Massive market and immediate Cup window.
  3. Maple Leafs: Hometown appeal (Andersson played junior in Mississauga) and offensive freedom.

This competition could drive up Ottawa’s price—or force them to act fast before he’s off the board.

Conclusion: A Franchise-Defining Decision Looms

These NHL trade rumors aren’t just idle chatter—they represent a pivotal crossroads for the Senators. Acquiring Rasmus Andersson with an extension would signal Ottawa’s transition from rebuild to genuine contender. Failing to land him could mean another year of defensive instability and missed opportunities. For Steve Staios, the clock is ticking. And for Rasmus Andersson, the choice is clear: stay in familiar territory or help build something special in Canada’s capital.

Sources

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