Trade speculation around Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson is heating up again, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly part of the conversation. According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, Toronto has revisited discussions involving Andersson as the market for top-four defensemen tightens following Minnesota’s acquisition of Quinn Hughes.
Considering Toronto is struggling and playing Troy Stecher over 20 minutes per night, it’s become clear they could use some blue line help, and if Andersson goes elsewhere, the Maple Leafs might have few options left.
With few impact blueliners expected to be available between now and the trade deadline, Andersson’s name has resurfaced quickly. LeBrun noted that Toronto’s interest isn’t new, explaining that the Maple Leafs have long viewed the Flames defenseman as a strong fit.
“Among the teams that have circled back on Rasmus Andersson are the Toronto Maple Leafs,” LeBrun reported, adding that the club previously explored a deal at last season’s deadline.
What complicates matters is Andersson’s contract status. He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, leaving Calgary with a choice to make. As LeBrun put it, “What is going to be interesting is how the Flames handle that potential trade. Do they move him as a traditional rental? Or do they involve the agent Claude Lemieux in a potential sign-and-trade to get more value?”
That possibility is especially relevant for Toronto. LeBrun added that the Leafs are viewed as one of the teams Andersson might be open to extending with, should a trade come together.
There Is A Not-So-Small Problem for the Maple Leafs
TSN’s Darren Dreger, however, suggested that Toronto remains cautious. While acknowledging Andersson’s appeal (or any other top-four defenseman), Dreger pointed out that the Leafs are waiting for prices to soften as more sellers potentially enter the market. “They need more sellers in the market, and right now, that’s not the case,” he said.
There’s also internal debate about priorities. Dreger noted Toronto isn’t fully convinced a top-four defenseman is its most pressing need, suggesting a top-line winger could be a bigger boost, particularly in helping Auston Matthews rediscover his scoring touch.
With limited assets and multiple needs, general manager Brad Treliving faces a familiar balancing act — deciding whether Andersson is worth the cost, or if help up front should take priority. It doesn’t appear the Leafs can do both things, assuming they can even do one.
Next: Strip Away All the New Nylander Noise, What is the Maple Leafs Forward, Really?
More News
