Tough decisions ahead for Ristolainen and Flyers
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L. ViardFebruary 9, 2022 (2:04 PM)
Last summer, Flyers acquired the right-handed defenseman that they were desperately looking for, Rasmus Ristolainen for a heavy cost. Trading Robert Hagg and two draft picks to the Buffalo Sabres, for the Finnish defender. Although he couldn't carry the defense for the first half of the season, «Risto» still did a very good job for his first season with the Flyers, despite criticism on his play he was efficient in the role he was assigned to, registering 144 hits in 41 games and with good defensive abilities overall.
Due to this offseason, every outcome is possible regarding Ristolainen's future: he may want to leave to a winning team, he could extend his contract and stay in Philadelphia or Chuck Fletcher could be looking to move him to recoup some of the assets that the Flyers lost in the original Ristolainen trade. The Flyers will surely be looking to keep him since it was their intention from the beginning according to Fletcher, but no matter what they must decide quickly for obvious reasons.
If Risto and the Flyers decided to part ways, who would be his successor in Philly's struggling defense? A few names have emerged but nothing is certain as of now.
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John Klingberg? It wouldn't make sense to let go Ristolainen to bring the soon-to-be 30 years old defender from Dallas, who will be looking to close a max deal for the next years.
David Savard? Although there is no rumour of this yet, Savard could be an interesting addition to the team for a reasonable price. He could be a good option on the second or third pair, as the Flyers will probably need some veterans in defense next year
One thing is for sure, Flyers are looking to change things and it could all start with Ristolainen moving.
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