Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen has been the subject of trade speculation for multiple seasons. It has carried over to this off-season, and it makes sense with the big right-shot defenseman entering the final season of his contract in 2026-27.
If the Flyers end up moving Ristolainen, these two teams could be good fits for the veteran blueliner.
Advertisement
The Canadiens were connected to Ristolainen leading up to the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. When noting that they could still use a right-shot shutdown defenseman in their top four, it would make sense if they kicked tires on him again this summer. The Habs have yet to make any notable additions this summer, so it would be understandable if they tried to change that by landing Ristolainen.
The Senators could be another team to keep an eye on when it comes to Ristolainen. Like the Canadiens, they have been linked to the Flyers blueliner in the past. The Senators’ right side has also been in need of a boost for a while now, and acquiring Ristolainen could provide them with just that. He would slot well on their second pairing and would be an obvious option for their penalty kill.
