NHL rumors: Rasmus Andersson still expected to re-sign with Golden Knights after Finals appearance

Rasmus Andersson almost could not have asked for a better first few months with the Vegas Golden Knights. After spending the first nine seasons of his NHL career with the Calgary Flames — and going four years without a playoff appearance — the Swedish defenseman helped the Knights come within two victories of a Stanley Cup championship in 2025-26.

Although it ended in disappointment, the 29-year-old played a key defensive role on the second pairing alongside Noah Hanifin throughout Vegas’ run to the Stanley Cup Final.

Andersson is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but as The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reported, the two sides had a “handshake agreement” on a new contract after he was acquired from the Flames mid-season.

With free agency just two weeks away, there is still nothing concrete. But Pagnotta believes something will still get done before the end of June.

“It is unclear what type of long-term contract Andersson may secure with the Golden Knights, but that move is still expected and could get finalized by the end of the month,” the hockey insider wrote on Thursday.

“If talks fall apart, though, Andersson will be among the top defenceman available in the open market.”

Andersson made it clear he hopes to remain in Las Vegas after the Knights lost in six games to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup Final.

“I’ve loved everything about Vegas, and I’ve really enjoyed being here,” the veteran blue liner told reporters. “I would love to come back, and I would love to work with (Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon) and find a solution. Being back here would be awesome. We were this close to winning.”

Andersson finished the regular season with 17 goals and 47 points in 81 games split between the Flames and Golden Knights in 2025-26, adding six assists in 22 playoff contests.

After surrendering significant assets to acquire him at the trade deadline, Vegas appears determined to ensure his stay with the organization lasts much longer than a few months. If both sides get their wish, Andersson could remain a key piece of the Golden Knights’ blue line for years to come.

If he is re-signed, Vegas will have all of its top-four defenseman back, with Shea Theodore, Brayden McNabb and Hanifin all under contract for at least one more campaign.

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