As Denver Barkey heads back to the London Knights after spending the last couple of months watching the Philadelphia Flyers' training camp from the sidelines, he reflects on his recovery from illness and coming back a stronger player than before.

The Philadelphia Flyers have been one of the most-talked-about teams in the rumor mill this season. It is pretty easy to understand why, as they are in the middle of a rebuild.

The Flyers are only continuing to create trade speculation as we get closer to Christmas, as NHL insider Nick Kypreos had Scott Laughton and Rasmus Ristolainen on his trade board for Sportsnet.

Laughton, 30, generated a lot of interest last season leading up to the deadline but was not moved. It is easy to understand why playoff teams would love to have him, as he is a hard-nosed forward who is known for his leadership and strong defensive play.

However, with Laughton being under contract until the end of the 2025-26 season, they do not need to rush a move and can wait until they can get the right kind of offer.

Laughton has three goals, seven assists, and 72 hits in 29 games this season with the Flyers.

Ristolainen, on the other hand, has been discussed heavily in the rumor mill this season. The 30-year-old has the potential to draw interest from contenders who need help on the right side of their defense. This is especially so if the Flyers are open to retaining some of his $5.1 million cap hit.

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen (55) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the second period at Amerant Bank Arena.

With Jacob Trouba being traded to the Anaheim Ducks, Ristolainen is among the best hard-hitting, right-shot defensemen available. Thus, the Flyers have the potential to get a nice return for him if they decide to flip him.

In 29 games this season, Ristolainen has one goal, eight points, 48 blocks, and 53 hits.

2 Flyers Named As Top Trade Candidates