Rasmus Ristolainen: John Tortorella's workhorse
It had been common knowledge that Rasmus Ristolainen was considered to be a costly and ineffective defenseman prior to the arrival of John Tortorella.
As a result of Tortorella's leadership, Ristolainen was able to find a new purpose under his leadership, a physical, minutes-eating workhorse, who, as a result, had also found his offensive game prior to the All-Star break.
«I think my game has been getting better every game. I like where my game is at now,» Ristolainen said.
«It's pretty simple and clear. It's honest. I think the way he is, the way he coaches, he probably gets the most out of me. That's what I appreciate, the honesty, good or bad. Sometimes I'll need a little push and a kick in the a**.»-Risto on Torts
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As a result of his development of his two-way game, Ristolainen has earned the respect of John Tortorella, which we all know how difficult that is to do, as well as complimenting Ristolainen that he needs more assignments in all situations.
«He's our most improved player. He deserves to be put in all situations.» � John Tortorella on Rasmus Ristolainen
Tortorella is credited with getting the most of Ristolainen, with his honest criticism and motivating style, he is able to get the most out of him.
As a result, Ristolainen has improved so much in his game, that if he continues to play consistently as he has, he could end up a middle-pairing or top-pairing defenseman in the NHL.
In spite of the fact that Ristolainen is not regarded as a powerhouse offensively, he tallied 20 points in 74 games this season and has gained confidence in Philly's new system as a result.
Can we say Risto is truly bad anymore?
As Seen On: flyersnittygritty.com
| POLL | ||
27 AOUT | 44 ANSWERS Rasmus Ristolainen: John Tortorella's workhorse Do you think Rasmus Ristolainen was the Flyers' most improved defenseman? | ||
| Yes | 33 | 75 % |
| No | 11 | 25 % |
| List of polls | ||
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