Edmonton Oilers reporter hints at possible trade for Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen

Edmonton Oilers reporter Bob Stauffer reported today that the team is looking to upgrade their blueline after putting Evander Kane on LTIR, and one Flyers defenseman seems to fit the bill.

Stauffer revealed that the Oilers are hoping for an upgrade on the right side of their blueline heading into next season. As he points out, the team may have the cap room necessary to pull off such a move now that Evander Kane is set to go on LTIR and will likely remain there well into the start of the season. To be specific, he says that the team would prefer a second-pair guy that still has term left on his contract after this season.

One player that matches that criteria perfectly is Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. The Finnish defender would slot in on the second pair for most NHL teams and would provide some size and physicality to the Oilers defense core. Furthermore, he plays the right side and more importantly, he is right handed to boot. Many fans have pointed this out, linking him to the Oilers after Stauffer's comments.

It should be noted however, that the Flyers blueliner got into just 31 games last season. This is because he was dealing with significant injury problems. However, he appears to have made a full recovery in the offseason and he has already been seen skating ahead of training camp. Furthermore, he is expected to be fully ready for the season by opening night.

As for term, Ristolainen has three years left on his current deal, including this season. As we can see then, he fits all the criteria Stauffer mentioned the Oilers are looking for. Right handed? Check. Plays the right side? Check. Can play in a second-pair role? Check. Has term left after this season? Check.

It would seem then, that Ristolainen has everything Stan Bowman and the Oilers are looking for. The only question that remains is whether or not they will actually pull the trigger on a deal to bring him to Edmonton.

Source: HockeyFeedProposed trade between Oilers and Flyers includes former 1st round pick.

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