If the Flyers make Rasmus Ristolainen available this season, these three clubs could be in the mix for his services.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen is starting to create some chatter in the rumor mill again. With the Flyers in the middle of a rebuild and Ristolainen being a big right-shot defenseman, he could be a decent trade chip for them this season.
If the Flyers make Ristolainen available this season, these three teams could be in the mix.
Edmonton Oilers
It is no secret that the Edmonton Oilers need help on the right side of their defense. Because of this, they stand out as a potential team to watch in the Ristolainen sweepstakes. This is especially so if the Flyers clarify that they are open to retaining a portion of Ristolainen's salary.
When looking at the Oilers' roster, Ristolainen could be a solid fit on their second pairing. In addition, he would work on their penalty kill because of his improved defensive play.
Utah Hockey Club
The Utah Hockey Club made a move earlier this season when they acquired Olli Maatta from the Detroit Red Wings. However, when noting that both Sean Durzi and John Marino are out long-term, Utah could use another right-shot defenseman. Thus, Ristolainen could make sense for them.
Utah HC also has over $6 million of cap space to work with right now, so they could easily afford Ristolainen with some salary retained. Thus, they stand out as a potential suitor.
Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks have previously been connected to Ristolainen, so they could be a club to watch. The right side of their blueline could use a boost, and Ristolainen would have the potential to provide them with that.
Ristolainen could work nicely on either their second or third pairing and would naturally give them another defender for their penalty kill.