The Montreal Canadiens' recent clash with the New York Islanders was a rollercoaster that highlighted a glaring need on their blue line. Despite jumping out to an early two-goal lead, the Canadiens found themselves scrambling as the Islanders clawed back, ultimately forcing overtime with a late equalizer from Anders Lee. While they managed to snag a point, it was a game they could have wrapped up with two.
The Canadiens' struggles in clearing the puck from their defensive zone are fueling trade chatter, with Elliotte Friedman suggesting on "32 Thoughts: The Podcast" that Montreal has its eyes on Philadelphia Flyers' defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. The Finnish veteran, known for his physical play, still has a year left on his contract, and the Flyers might be open to retaining some salary for the right deal, according to Anthony Di Marco.
What Ristolainen Brings to the Canadiens
Ristolainen, despite a season marred by injuries, has shown his mettle in the 21 games he's played, tallying a goal and six points. But the Canadiens aren't eyeing him for his scoring touch.
They need his physical presence on the right side, a void especially felt when Arber Xhekaj is off the ice. Xhekaj's inconsistent playtime-often logging under 10 minutes-underscores the need for a reliable, hard-hitting defenseman.
Ristolainen fits the bill, having consistently averaged over 20 minutes per game since his NHL debut in 2013-14.
Di Marco reports that the Flyers might seek a package similar to what the Boston Bruins received for Brandon Carlo: a conditional first-round pick, a fourth-round pick, and a prospect. While this price tag is steep, the Canadiens, now past their rebuilding phase, might be more inclined to part with a first-round pick as they aim to bolster their roster for a playoff push.
With Friedman indicating Montreal's intent to secure defensive reinforcements by the trade deadline, it's clear the Canadiens are on the hunt. Whether Ristolainen or another defenseman becomes their target, one thing is certain: Montreal is gearing up to fortify their blue line for the battles ahead.