Leafs Receive More Clarity on What It Will Take to Land Rasmus Andersson
Photo credit: Kamil Krzaczynski | Imagn imagines
As the sweepstakes appears to be coming to a close for Flames defenceman Rasmus Andersson, reports have surfaced revealing the Leafs have the necessary assets to put a competitive offer together for the dynamic blueliner.
The Leafs and GM Brad Treliving have chased Andersson since last season. Unfortunately, the asking price and "Leafs tax" had been far too high for them to feel comfortable making a deal.
Now, with the Bruins and Flames past pleasantries and working towards a deal, the Leafs could swoop in with a last-minute offer for the pending free agent.
Asking Price For Andersson Surprisingly Reasonable
During a recent episode of the "Barn Burner" podcast, Ryan Pinder asked TSN's Darren Dreger if the asking price he had heard was correct.
"The rumoured ask is a 1st and a ready to play prospect, someone that's just emerging as an NHLer."
Dreger indeed confirmed that that is what the starting point was for Andersson and it's something the Leafs could afford, to an extent.
They have a 2028 first-round pick and could offer up Easton Cowan or Ben Danford, who could be NHL-ready next season after a strong training camp, but that would be the entry fee to bidding, without an extension.
Any team that acquires Andersson wants an extension as part of the deal, meaning the price will only go up.
While the Bruins and Flames were in discussions, Andersson played for the Flames on Saturday, with some suggesting it was power-move by Flames GM Craig Conroy saying he's waiting for a better offer.
Trading For Andersson Doesn't Make Sense
A right-shot that is mobile, excellent at both ends of the ice and can move the puck efficiently is at the top of Brad Treliving's wish list. Andersson fits that bill, but the Leafs are not securely in a playoff spot and Cowan is having a very good rookie season.
The Leafs also have William Villeneuve with the Toronto Marlies, who offers what Andersson does, but just needs an opportunity and some experience.
As the Flames look to get a deal done before the Olympic break, will Treliving decide it's now or never and give up what little assets he has? Or will he defer and go with a much cheaper option? These questions will need to be answered soon.
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