The Philadelphia Flyers’ defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen has been a name swirling in NHL trade rumors for weeks now. With the March 7th deadline approaching, many analysts and fans alike speculated that the 30-year-old blueliner could be on the move.
However, recent comments from Flyers’ general manager Danny Briere suggest otherwise.
Philadelphia Flyers Rumors: Ristolainen Not Actively on the Trade Block
Briere has publicly stated that he is “not shopping” Ristolainen, despite acknowledging that teams have inquired about his availability. This shift in stance has surprised some, as Ristolainen’s $5.1 million AAV contract with two years remaining could be attractive to teams seeking a right-handed defenseman. So, what exactly is behind the Flyers’ apparent reluctance to trade Ristolainen?
Here’s my take on why the Flyers might be hesitant to move Ristolainen:
- Improved Performance: Ristolainen has shown signs of improvement this season. While never a standout offensively, he has been a steady presence on the Flyers’ blueline, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. His defensive play has been more consistent, and he has chipped in with 11 assists.
- Value to the Flyers’ Contention Push: The Flyers are currently in the thick of the wild-card race. Ristolainen’s experience and physicality provide a stabilizing force on the defensive end, especially important for a team aiming for a playoff berth. Trading him away could disrupt this chemistry and weaken their defensive core.
- Right-Handed Defenseman Shortage: Right-handed defensemen are a valuable commodity in the NHL, and Ristolainen provides a blend of size, skating ability, and physicality that many teams covet. The Flyers might be banking on his value increasing as the deadline approaches, potentially netting them a higher return in a trade.
Why a Trade Could Still Happen
While Briere’s comments suggest the Flyers aren’t actively shopping Ristolainen, it doesn’t completely shut the door on a potential deal. Here are some scenarios that could lead to Ristolainen being dealt:
- A Godfather Offer: If another team blows the Flyers away with an offer they can’t refuse, a trade could still materialize. This might involve a package of young prospects or draft picks that could significantly bolster the Flyers’ future.
- Logjam on Defense: The Flyers have a logjam on the right side of their defense with Ristolainen, Travis Sanheim, Jamie Drysdale, and Ronnie Attard all vying for ice time. If the Flyers decide to prioritize the development of younger players, Ristolainen could become expendable.
Finding the Latest Philadelphia Flyers News and Trade Rumors
Stay up-to-date on all the latest Philadelphia Flyers news, NHL trade rumors, and find out what channel the Flyers game is on tonight! Bookmark our website, nhltraderumor.com, and sign up for our newsletter below to get the inside scoop on everything Flyers hockey.
