Ristolainen Sweepstakes Heat Up as Montreal Fades From Picture

The Rasmus Ristolainen trade market is building momentum as the deadline approaches, with multiple contenders circling the Philadelphia Flyers defenseman. Montreal's interest has cooled considerably due to salary cap constraints and a crowded top-four on the blue line, effectively removing them from serious consideration. The Flyers are demanding a significant package anchored by a first-round pick, using last season's Brandon Carlo trade as their valuation benchmark.