How does the Quinn Hughes trade affect Ramus Andersson?
Kent Wilson of the Calgary Sun: Wilson writes now that the smoke has settled on the Quinn Hughes trade from the Vancouver Canucks to the Minnesota Wild, attention shifts to the Calgary flames and Rasmus Andersson. While Andersson and Hughes are on two different levels, the package for Hughes’ eldest brother defines the market for Andersson.
NHL Rumors: Are Rasmus Andersson’s Days With the Calgary Flames Numbered?
As Wilson noted, Anderson and the Flames won’t get a package like the Canucks did, but Calgary can demand a higher price than normal. For example, say Hughes only went for a first-round pick and another player; perhaps the Flames can be bullied by teams that need a defenseman with the right shot. Now Flames management can set the asking price and ask a team to offer a “yes” package.
The Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights have been linked to Andersson in the past. Other teams, such as the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals, will inquire about him. Along with Andersson, the Flames will continue to rely on Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman. Once again, for Kadri it will be an offer they cannot refuse.
Quick NHLRumors.com note: Expect trading activity to pick up after the holiday trading halt. The Flames will be a target for teams looking to strengthen their roster. They have three great players who will help the contenders. But Andersson is most valuable because of his position.
What will the Pittsburgh Penguins do with Kris Letang?
Josh Yohe of The Athletic: It’s no secret that Kris Letang isn’t having the best of years for the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, there is more talk within the organization than usual. We all knew what he could bring, but Father Time is catching up with him.
NHL Rumors: Quinn Hughes always left Vancouver and had trade protection
What doesn’t happen is a trade. Letang has a full freedom of movement clause. And how many teams want an aging player (currently 38) with a health history of two strokes and who is still owed $6.1 million per year for the next two seasons? Nobody wants him. So that option is ruled out, along with buying out his contract. The Penguins won’t get a waiver because he’s over 35.
Despite Letang wanting to continue playing beyond this contract, it’s hard to imagine the Penguins will renew. The whole point of this trio of Letang, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin staying in Pittsburgh is so they can retire together.
Quick NHLRumors.com note: One has to wonder if Letang’s health becomes a concern again, there’s a chance Pittsburgh could take something from the Washington Capitals playbook. Remember, they kept Nicklas Backstrom out because of his knee, and TJ Oshie left out because of his back. So maybe the nuclear option is Lupul or Robidas Island.
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