NHL Shockwaves: What Surprising Returns Are the Calgary Flames Demanding for Blake Coleman and Rasmus Andersson?

As the NHL trade deadline looms, the Calgary Flames find themselves at a crossroads, juggling tough decisions on key players Blake Coleman and Rasmus Andersson. Insights from Eric Francis alongside Nick Kypreos and Justin Bourne reveal the stakes involved and the kinds of returns the Flames are eyeing. While Andersson’s value seems crystal clear—demanding a hefty package involving multiple first-round picks and a promising prospect—Coleman’s worth is wrapped in a bit more mystery. There’s talk of first-round picks and multiple assets, highlighting just how crucial timing and cap flexibility play into potential deals. These conversations underscore the rarity and high demand for right-shot defensemen and how the Flames are maneuvering to maximize their assets for more than a single playoff run. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the chess game behind the scenes as Calgary looks to position itself for both the present and future. LEARN MORE

Sportsnet 590 The FAN: Eric Francis on with Nick Kypreos and Justin Bourne on the Calgary Flames, Blake Coleman and Rasmus Andersson and what they are looking to get in return for them before the trade deadline.

** NHLRumors.com transcription

Kypreos: “There any word from your end on what kind of return Blake could bring to Calgary Flames, and ultimately, is there an offer that Craig can’t refuse?”

Francis: “You know, look, I have, I know what the Flames are looking for, for Rasmus Andersson. What they’re looking for, for Coleman, is a little murkier for me.

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But I can remind you guys before he was really even a name in this league, when he got traded from New Jersey to Tampa Bay, I do believe he went from two first rounders. And it kind of shocked the hockey world. Only won two cups, and now here he is, all these years later, he’s much better player than ever was back then.

I’m not suggesting you’re going to get two first rounders for Blake Coleman, but you don’t even think, you don’t even answer the phone, unless someone starts by staying first rounder. Otherwise, I guarantee they don’t make that trade.

So, it’s a first-rounder, plus, plus, and it could be as up to three, three players. He’s a whole lot more attainable than, say, a Nazem Kadri, whose cap hit is a little more cost-prohibitive for someone to acquire.

Yes, everybody would like a Kadri, too, but Blake Coleman could fit into their salary cap structure easier. And if you get them now, you get them for two playoff runs, not just one.”

Kypreos: “Just to follow up quickly on Anderson, what is, what is the get back for Calgary, on, on Rasmus.”

Francis: “They’re looking for the equivalent of two first rounders. So first round draft pick starts the conversation. They also want a player who’s probably been drafted in the first round, like a prospect.

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And depending on how high, what that first-round draft pick is, they may want a third player in there as well. Look, you guys know, Kyper, I see your boards there, I mean, like, is there a more sought-after guy at the trade deadline this year on a very important position, a right-shot defenseman?”

Kypreos: “Yeah. They’re rare.”

Francis: “He’s not a unicorn, but he’s hard to find.”

Kypreos: “They’re rare.”

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