Pierre LeBrun airs Calgary Flames GM's strong message to teams inquiring about $27,300,000 star who "hates" Oilers & Canucks

On Tuesday’s "Insider Trading" on TSN, Pierre LeBrun discussed trade rumors about Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson. Despite speculations, Flames General Manager Craig Conroy made it clear Andersson is not available.

Rasmus Andersson has been an important player for the Flames since being drafted in 2015. He signed a six-year, $27.3 million extension in January 2020, with a $4.55 million annual cap hit.

According to LeBrun, Conroy is confused by the trade inquiries since Andersson isn’t on an expiring contract. He has told other teams the Flames are not interested in trading him.

"Flames have no interest in trading him, point blank, and they're a little confused as to why they're getting calls from other teams checking in on his availability." LeBrun said (2:24 onwards). "What GM Craig Conroy has told other teams is, we're not interested in trading Rasmus Andersson. He's not a player on an expiring deal.

"The Flames are in a playoff race, and in fact, the Flames hope to extend Rasmus Andersson potentially this summer when he's allowed to extend one year out. That may or may not happen, but for now, he is a Calgary Flame." [2:24]

The Flames see Andersson as a valuable part of their team per LeBrun. Conroy wants to keep experienced players like Andersson while the team transitions its roster.

"The Flames don't want to tear it down." LeBrun said. "They want to keep some key veterans around as they continue to transition their roster, and Andersson is one of those players that the Flames want to be part of that."

On Friday, In an interview with Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, Andersson talked about staying in Calgary.

“I love playing here, and that’s never going to change,” he said.

Andersson also shared his strong feelings about Calgary Flames’ rivals Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks.

“I hate the Oilers, I hate the Canucks – that’s just the way I am,” he added.

Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson's importance to the team

Rasmus Andersson has six goals, 12 assists, and 18 points in 35 games, with a minus-9 rating. While his stats are modest, his leadership and reliability are valuable for the Flames. Anderson is averaging 24:20 minutes of ice time this season and continues to contribute to the Flames' defense and offense.

With the trade deadline on March 7, rumors about him may continue. However, the Calgary Flames GM Craig Conroy is committed to keeping Andersson as part of their long-term plans.