This former Sabres defenseman is becoming a popular target on the trade market.

The Philadelphia Flyers are having an impressive season, as they have exceeded expectations immensely. Although this is the case, Flyers GM Danny Briere is sticking with the team's rebuilding plans, and they will be sellers at the deadline because of it. One player whom they are willing to hear offers for is former Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen.

After a rocky start to his Flyers tenure, Ristolainen has picked up play this season, primarily due to his steady defensive play and physicality. In 30 games, he may only have four points, but he also has 50 hits and 44 blocks. These elements, mixed with his 6-foot-4 size, appear to be making him a popular target on the trade market. 

Per The Fourth Period's Anthony Di Marco, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks "are two main teams" currently linked to Ristolainen. NHL insider David Pagnotta later added that he "wouldn't be surprised" if the Dallas Stars also made a push for Ristolainen. 

The Maple Leafs, Canucks, and Stars all could use a heavy-hitting right-shot defenseman on their rosters before the deadline passes. This is especially so once the playoffs come around, so it makes sense that Toronto and Vancouver have a definite interest in him. As for the Stars, he would be a fit there, potentially on their second pairing.

However, for a Ristolainen deal to have a real chance of going through, the Flyers would need to retain salary. Di Marco noted that they are willing to, but it would also increase their asking price for Ristolainen. 

Ristolainen, 29, was drafted eighth overall by the Sabres in 2013. He went on to play eight seasons with the club, where he had 46 goals, 245 points, and a minus-163 rating. 

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