The Philadelphia Flyers are set to welcome back Rasmus Ristolainen for his season debut against the Montreal Canadiens. This highly anticipated return marks a critical moment for the team as they seek to improve their standings in the league.
Ristolainen’s Injury History
Rasmus Ristolainen has been sidelined since late March of the 2024-25 season. He underwent surgery on his right tricep in April, which forced him out for 16 games. Initially, doctors predicted a six-month recovery, but complications extended this timeline.
This injury also kept Ristolainen out for 29 games during the 2023-24 regular season. Although there are lingering concerns about his long-term health, it is hoped the surgery has effectively addressed the issue.
Performance Expectations
- In the 2024-25 season, Ristolainen recorded four goals and 15 assists over 63 games.
- He will join Nick Seeler on the bottom defense pair, a duo that previously shared on-ice time effectively.
- Ristolainen is expected to participate in the second penalty kill unit alongside Cam York.
Lineup Adjustments
With Ristolainen’s return, Noah Juulsen will likely be a healthy scratch. El-Balad has not received confirmation about a roster move to accommodate Ristolainen yet. Options for demotion include Nicolas Deslauriers and Ty Murchison from the recent game loss against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Current Team Standing
The Flyers are currently positioned fourth in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 16-9-6. This standing places them in the first wild card slot in the Eastern Conference.
As they prepare to face the Canadiens, the Flyers are eager for Ristolainen’s return to help end their three-game losing streak. The match is scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m. EST.
