Initial reports involving a link between the Flyers and the Maple Leafs in trade talks have now been debunked.
Elliotte Friedman mentioned Rasmus Ristolainen in his 32 Thoughts column today while speaking with Jeff Marek on Sportsnet 590 The Fan. During a discussion about all of the defensemen linked to the Leafs, he said he received some pushback on the Ristolainen report. In fact, a general trade between the Flyers and Maple Leafs could be difficult. Essentially, word on the street was that it was a long shot, and he didn’t think Ristolainen was the right guy.
He was told that Toronto had gone to look at Ristolainen as a possible replacement, but added, “I’ll see how that one plays out.” He was told that they don’t think the Ristolainen talk is serious, and that it won’t be him.
His contract could be part of the problem. The Maple Leafs were interested, according to Friedman, and while Ristolainen has faced challenges on struggling teams, potentially affecting his statistics, he was a player of interest. He has made significant progress since last season, but the contract is significant. There were questions about his true value as a defender and whether he was worth the investment.
During an interview this week, Treliving stated, “What’s available, what’s the cost of it that can make an impact on our team, and that’s the manager’s job now, is to continue to work that process to see if we can help ourselves.” He acknowledges that there is work to be done, but making a mistake in a deal is worse than not making a deal at all.
Rasmus Ristolainen trade rumor Toronto Maple Leafs
Friedman stated in his most recent 32 Thoughts column:
“I believe Toronto has looked into Philadelphia’s Rasmus Ristolainen, who has three seasons left on a five-year, $25.5 million contract.” But I don’t think the Flyers are eager to trade him, and there’s no reason for them to do so while their team is performing well.”
The Leafs are still linked to other defensemen in trades.
Among the other names Friedman mentioned were Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin from Calgary. Sean Walker and Nick Seeler from Philadelphia were also mentioned. Friedman does not believe the Philadelphia 76ers are ready to make a move. They’re doing well and are in the running for the playoffs.
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