BOSTON — Noah Hanifin knows exactly what the Golden Knights are getting in Rasmus Andersson, because he spent five years watching it from the other side of the blue line.
Hanifin and Andersson formed one of the NHL’s most effective defensive pairings during their time together with the Calgary Flames from 2019-20 through 2023-24. They were on the ice for 126 goals for and just 96 against, according to Natural Stat Trick. Hanifin posted a plus-27 rating in 2022, while Andersson reached a career-best plus-30.
The two will be reunited in Las Vegas once Andersson’s immigration paperwork is processed, following a blockbuster trade with Calgary on Sunday.
“Just a great teammate, a great guy,” Hanifin said. “I think he’s going to fit in really well here. He’s a great hockey player.”
Hanifin said he spoke with Andersson for about 20 minutes after the trade. The reunion comes with obvious excitement, but Hanifin also recognizes the specific skill set Andersson brings.
“He can bring a lot of offense,” Hanifin said. “I think with the way we play, with the assets we have up front, the forwards and the skill we have, I think getting a guy like him who can move the puck and distribute it well will be beneficial for our team.”
Andersson, a native of Sweden, faces a more complex immigration process than typical cross-border trades between Canada and the United States. He is not expected to be available for Thursday’s game against the Boston Bruins.
The Golden Knights have time to integrate Andersson, with nine games remaining before the Winter Olympics break — a luxury compared to the March 6 trade deadline.
“He’s a gamer. He’s always engaged. He’s competitive,” Hanifin said. “I’d say he’s more of a puck mover, offensive guy, but he defends hard and plays the game hard. It’s a good addition.”
Hanifin noted that Calgary’s zone-style defensive system is similar to the Knights’, which should ease Andersson’s transition. “I think coming from a similar system, I think it’s really helpful,” Hanifin said. “He’s a smart player. I’m sure he’s going to get on board quick with the way we play. We’re getting him for a reason, so hopefully he can go out and do his thing.”
It’s expected that Hanifin and Andersson will skate together once Andersson joins the team.
