"I hate the Oilers, I hate the Canucks": $27,300,000 Flames D-man gets brutally honest about Canadian rivals and unpredictable future in Calgary

Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson has shared his thoughts on the ongoing trade talks surrounding his future with the team. In an interview with Sportsnet's Eric Francis on Friday, Andersson expressed his affection for the Flames and his desire to continue playing for the franchise.

However, he also acknowledged the harsh realities of the NHL's business landscape:

"I love playing here, and that's never going to change," Andersson said. "I hate the Oilers, I hate the Canucks – that's just the way I am."

The 28-year-old defenseman, who's playing his ninth consecutive season with the Flames since being drafted 53rd overall in 2015, emphasized his commitment to the team:

"Of course, I'd love to stay here, but I've heard from others in similar situations that it's a business," Andersson noted. "So, we'll see what happens."

Andersson signed a six-year contract extension with the Flames in January 2020, worth $27.3 million with an annual average value of $4.55 million. As an assertive alternate captain with a modified no-trade clause, Andersson has limited control over his future, with the ability to veto trades to only six teams.

"I've got no say in it – I have a six-team no-trade list, so it's out of my hands," Andersson said.

As a top-pairing, right-shot defenseman with exceptional two-way play, Andersson's value to the Flames is undeniable. He currently leads the team in time-on-ice per game, averaging nearly 25 minutes per night.

With the trade deadline on March 7, Rasmus Andersson's future remains uncertain. While the Flames are currently fifth in the Pacific Division, just a few points shy of the Canucks for the second wildcard spot in the Western Conference, Andersson's form has been instrumental in the team's performance. Ultimately, the decision on his future rests with management.

"It's all in Connie (GM Craig Conroy) and Don's (Don Maloney's) hands until my contract is up, unless we find a deal," Andersson said. "It's not like I'm sitting on a full no-move."

While many franchises would welcome the opportunity to acquire the Swedish defenseman, only time will tell if the Flames choose to retain his services.

Calgary Flames recognize Rasmus Andersson's excellence with Quarter-Century team selection

NHL: Calgary Flames at San Jose Sharks - Source: Imagn

To celebrate the NHL's quarter-century of action this millennium, the league introduced Quarter-Century Teams for each of its 32 franchises. On Saturday, the NHL unveiled the Calgary Flames' Quarter-Century team, featuring a mix of current stars and legendary alumni.

The team includes current captain Mikael Backlund and defenseman Rasmus Andersson, alongside former players who have made significant contributions to the franchise. A panel of esteemed experts, comprising broadcasters, former players, and local, national, and NHL writers, selected the team.

The NHL's Quarter-Century Team features two six-player lineups, with players eligible for selection having played for their respective franchises after January 1, 2000.

Rasmus Andersson, known for his intensity and ability to rally his teammates, has been a key player for the Flames, playing his seventh consecutive season with the team. He has totaled 495 games, scoring 42 goals and adding 176 assists for 218 points.

Andersson was named to the second team, joining current captain Mikael Backlund, general manager Craig Conroy, Sean Monahan, Dion Phaneuf, and goalie Jacob Markstrom.