Rasmus Ristolainen trade talks with Canadiens hit a wall; new team emerges as top destination
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We can finally move on from the Flyers’ defenseman situation, as rumors linking Rasmus Ristolainen to the Montreal Canadiens have officially hit a wall.
Insider Marco D’Amico confirmed that Kent Hughes simply made a phone call to gauge the market.
The asking price for the Finnish blueliner did not align with the Canadiens’ rebuilding plan. The Canadiens are not looking to sacrifice the future for a contract that carries significant cap weight.
Currently, Rasmus Ristolainen earns an annual salary of $5.1 million through 2027. That is a substantial figure for a player who, let’s be honest, does not generate unanimous support among analysts.
The 31-year-old defenseman has recorded 1 goal and 12 assists for a total of 13 points in 58 games this season. He also holds a -4 rating, which would not necessarily accelerate Montreal’s transition game.
The Dallas Stars are now reportedly the favorites to acquire his services before the trade deadline. They are seeking physical depth for the long playoff run ahead.
Kent Hughes remains patient moving forward
“Multiple sources indicate the Canadiens simply checked in to see the price on Rasmus Ristolainen.
Nothing more came from that very brief exchange.
The Dallas Stars seem like a more serious option.”
– Marco D’Amico
Kent Hughes may be shopping around, but he will not make reckless moves just for the sake of action. The priority remains prospect development and disciplined salary cap management.
It’s simple: if Montreal makes a move, it will be for an asset that fits within the competitive window of Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
There is no interest in a short-term fix that could slow the process.
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Rasmus Ristolainen trade talks with Canadiens hit a wall; new team emerges as top destination
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