Rasmus Ristolainen's upper-body injury has worsened, moving from day-to-day to week-to-week, forcing the Philadelphia Flyers to adjust their lineup. The defenseman last played on March 11 against the Ottawa Senators, and this marks his second injury absence this season. Coach John Tortorella noted the impact of Ristolainen's size and skill pairing with Egor Zamula, which has been statistically effective. Emil Andrae has stepped up in Ristolainen's absence, but he brings a different style of play.

Ristolainen has contributed 19 points this season, but his frequent injuries have hindered his consistency on the ice. The Flyers, looking to solidify their defense, may need to reassess their strategy without Ristolainen’s physical presence, especially as Tortorella acknowledges the challenge of finding a robust, right-handed defenseman during trade talks.