Trade Pitch Sees Maple Leafs Acquiring Star $27 Million Defenseman

The Toronto Maple Leafs are favorites for the Stanley Cup this season and are looking to enhance their roster. One trade proposal suggests they could acquire Rasmus Andersson, a star defenseman, from the Calgary Flames.

Proposed Trade:

Maple Leafs acquire:

• Rasmus Andersson

Flames acquire:

• Topi Niemela
• Roni Hirvonen
• 2026 first-round pick

This trade benefits both teams: the Maple Leafs strengthen their defense, while the Flames receive valuable prospects and a first-round pick to aid their rebuild.

Andersson is currently in the fifth year of a six-year, ** $ 27.3 million deal**. He could become part of Toronto’s second-line right defense pairing, alongside Chris Tanev and Jake McCabe, creating one of the strongest right sides in the NHL. Last season, he played 78 games, scoring 9 goals and 30 assists.

In exchange, Toronto would give up a first-round pick and defense prospect Niemela, who was selected 64th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. Niemela can potentially fill Andersson’s role. Last season in the AHL, he tallied 8 goals and 31 assists in 68 games.

Hirvonen, also 22 and drafted 59th overall in 2020, is viewed as a future middle-six forward but may need another year of AHL development. Last season, he recorded 7 goals and 6 assists in 37 games.

Coach’s Confidence in Defense

Toronto’s new head coach, Craig Berube, is pleased with the team’s defensive performance. He highlighted their work ethic and checking in the first couple of games.

“We just have to stick with that—the goals will come,” Berube stated. He emphasized the importance of controlling the puck and playing solid defense to avoid high-scoring matches.

Toronto started the season with a 2-1 record as of October 13.

Flames GM’s Intentions

With Andersson having two years remaining on his contract, he may be a topic of trade rumors. However, Flames GM Craig Conroy aims to keep him on the team long-term.

“For me, he’s a Flame. He can be a Flame for a long, long time,” Conroy said. He emphasized Andersson’s competitiveness and importance to the team, expressing a desire to discuss a contract extension soon, with Andersson eligible for one starting July 1, 2025.