It would not be too surprising if this Philadelphia Flyers defenseman generated interest again next season.
It would not be too surprising if this Philadelphia Flyers defenseman generated interest again next season.
During the second half of last season, Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen generated interest around the NHL. The Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and Calgary Flames were three specific clubs that were rumored to be linked to Ristolainen.
Yet, while Ristolainen generated some interest, any chance of an in-season trade was thwarted after the hulking defender ruptured his triceps tendon in mid-February. He also underwent surgery in April for the injury and is expected to be good to go for training camp.
While a move centering around Ristolainen did not occur during this past season, things very well could have been different if he had not suffered his season-ending injury. Due to this, if he continues to play well once he returns to action, it is certainly possible that the 29-year-old will generate interest yet again.
Ristolainen would be a strong target for teams looking to add size and grit to the right side of their defense. The 6-foot-4 defender has embraced more of a shutdown role since joining the Flyers, and this could make him an appealing target around the NHL again. This is especially so if the Flyers are open to retaining a chunk of his salary, which they reportedly were before his injury.
Nevertheless, it will be very interesting to see if Ristolainen forms a trade market again next season. If he stays healthy and puts together a solid start to the season, teams should be calling.
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