Rasmus Andersson's future with the Calgary Flames is currently a hot topic as he enters the final year of his six-year, $27.3 million contract. With unrestricted free agency on the horizon in 2026, the Flames face a crucial decision regarding the defenseman's future with the team.

Andersson signed his current six-year contract with the Flames on January 8, 2020. The contract carries an annual cap hit of $4.55 million. In the 2025-26 season, Andersson will earn a base salary of $4.55 million.

As Andersson enters the final year of his contract, the Flames must decide whether to offer him a contract extension or risk losing him to free agency. According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, Andersson's future in Calgary hinges on whether the Flames are willing to commit to an eight-year extension. While an eight-year offer could secure his future with the team, trade rumors are building, and a trade closer to the deadline remains a distinct possibility if the Flames don't make a decisive move.

There are reports that Andersson was almost traded to the Vegas Golden Knights earlier in the offseason. This indicates that the Flames may be open to trading Andersson if they don't believe they can sign him to a long-term extension.

Andersson has expressed his focus on starting the season strong and helping Calgary rebound after missing the playoffs last year. In the previous season, he recorded 11 goals and 31 points in 81 games, solidifying his position as a reliable top-four defenseman.

One key move the Flames could make to potentially retain Rasmus Andersson is offering him an eight-year contract extension. This would provide him with long-term security and demonstrate the team's commitment to him as a key player. However, the Flames must also consider the financial implications of such a deal and how it would impact their salary cap situation.

As of July 1, 2024, Andersson can submit a list of six teams to which he would not accept a trade. This gives him some control over his future and could influence the Flames' decision-making process.

Ultimately, the Flames' decision on whether to extend Andersson's contract will depend on several factors, including his performance in the upcoming season, their overall cap situation, and their long-term plans for the team. If they are unable to reach an agreement on a contract extension, a trade may be the most logical option, allowing the Flames to acquire assets in exchange for a player who could leave for nothing in free agency.