Elliotte Friedman shared on social media that the Knights’ management gave up a very interesting return for the experienced blueliner. The Flames receive defenseman Zach Whitecloud, a first-round pick in the 2027 draft, and a second-round pick in 2027. However, if Vegas wins the Stanley Cup, that second-rounder automatically becomes a first-round pick in 2028.
Also heading to the Canadian organization is 22-year-old defenseman Abram Wiebe, who currently plays for North Dakota in the NCAA. Calgary will retain 50% of Andersson’s salary. Andersson himself has been a highly sought-after name on the trade market for several years, and in the current situation, he was likely the hottest defensive asset in the NHL.
This dynamic defenseman, known for his excellent skating and strong offensive contributions, signed a contract worth $4.55 million per year before the 2020/21 season. Considering the value for money, it is regarded as one of the best deals in the NHL.
The Flames are once again among the league’s worst teams, so the Malmö native is heading for a chance to compete for the title.
Last year, Andersson captained Sweden at the World Championship and is also included in the Olympic roster. This season, he played 48 games for Calgary, recording 10 goals and 20 assists. He finished just three points behind the team’s top scorer, Nazem Kadri.
Calgary drafted Andersson in the second round, 53rd overall, in 2015, and until now he had played exclusively for the Flames. In the NHL, he’s appeared in 584 regular season games (57 goals, 204 assists), plus 27 playoff games (7 goals, 7 assists). His current contract expires after this season, so it’s expected that Vegas will offer him a long-term deal.
An interesting aspect of the trade is that the Golden Knights improved their salary cap situation, as the Flames retained 50% of Andersson’s salary ($2.275 million), and Whitecloud, whose contract is worth $2.75 million, is heading to Canada. Among the teams interested in the Swedish defenseman was also the Boston Bruins.