As the Calgary Flames continue preparations for the upcoming NHL season, defenseman Rasmus Andersson remains at the center of swirling trade speculation. Despite a summer filled with rumors and reported interest from multiple teams, Andersson remains with the Flames—for now.

According to several league sources, Calgary is expected to begin the season with Andersson on the roster, opting to monitor how the team progresses before potentially making a move closer to the trade deadline. The Flames’ front office, led by President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Don Maloney, has so far held firm in not moving the veteran blueliner.

NHL insider David Pagnotta reported this week that Andersson would prefer a trade to either the Dallas Stars or the Vegas Golden Knights, should a deal materialize. Interestingly, Pagnotta also noted that the Flames were close to sending Andersson to the Los Angeles Kings earlier in the offseason, but the deal fell apart after the defenseman declined to sign a contract extension in L.A.

Of the two preferred destinations, Dallas appears to be the most logical fit. The Stars have been actively looking to upgrade their blue line and add a proven top-four defenseman to a group already loaded with offensive firepower. Andersson’s two-way game and playoff experience would make him a valuable addition.

The 27-year-old Swede is coming off a productive year with Calgary.

In 81 regular-season games, Andersson tallied 11 goals and 20 assists, anchoring the blue line while playing heavy minutes in all situations.

His blend of offensive instincts and defensive reliability has made him a consistent contributor for the Flames, and his skill set would likely appeal to any team looking to make a deep postseason run.

The Dallas Stars are built to contend now, boasting a deep forward group and one of the NHL’s top young defensemen in Miro Heiskanen. Adding Andersson would give Dallas another strong presence on the back end, particularly on special teams and in high-leverage playoff minutes.

The Stars have been knocking on the door of a Stanley Cup Final appearance in recent seasons and are considered one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference. A trade for Andersson could be the kind of move that helps push them over the top.

While Andersson remains a Flame for the moment, it’s clear the possibility of a trade is still on the table. Calgary appears willing to begin the year with him on the roster, but a deal could still materialize if the right offer comes in—or if the team’s performance prompts a shift in direction.

As the regular season approaches, all eyes will remain on Calgary and Andersson’s status. A move may not happen immediately, but this is a situation worth monitoring as the calendar moves toward the trade deadline.