Rasmus Ristolainen

Ristolainen became something of a stand-in for fans' frustration regarding the lack of organizational direction showcased by the Flyers.

The Flyers' season-opening roster has its fair share of new faces, surprises and unanswered questions.

The Flyers added Ristolainen via trade with the Sabres last summer.

Ristolainen suffered an upper-body injury on Feb. 9 against the Detroit Red Wings and did not play in Saturday's game, also against the Red Wings.

The Flyers traded first- and second-round picks to the Sabres for the defenseman, whose contract is up after next season.

The Sabres will improve just by not having Rasmus Ristolainen and got a great haul in return.

The Athletic plays the role of armchair GM with the Buffalo Sabres and handles Eichel, Reinhart and more.

Sam Reinhart scored twice in the second period, tipping a point shot while crossing through the slot and deflecting a power-play pass.

For a contending NHL team, the trade deadline represents the last chance to gear up before the postseason. But it’s a tricky process.

The defenseman-rich Sabres are playing better, but Rasmus Ristolainen could boost another team while bringing help where Buffalo needs it.

It wouldn’t be shocking if GM Kevin Cheveldayoff wanted to change the Jets' mix a bit, especially on the blue line.

Tampa Bay might well be interested in trading for the 24-year-old Finn, but Buffalo could be asking for a major piece in return.

Tampa Bay could stand pat, go big or land in the middle, but it still needs answers on Brayden Point, Ryan Callahan and other issues.

Through the opening days of camp, the Sabres have embraced the battle for roster spots. For the first time in a long time, those battles are legitimate.

The Sabres feel they are getting a cornerstone player in Rasmus Dahlin, but work still needs to be done on their blue line.