Philly Leader

Few players in the NHL have seen as significant a transformation in their game as Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. Now in his fourth season with the Flyers, the 30-year-old has returned to full health after injuries hampered him in previous seasons. Working closely with assistant coach Brad Shaw has greatly benefited Ristolainen's performance.

Known for his physicality and ability to handle heavy minutes on the ice, Ristolainen was once a regular power play contributor, recording over 40 points for four consecutive years. However, this came at the cost of defensive positioning. Under Shaw's guidance, he has become more disciplined and focused.

"Risto is a very valuable defenseman for our team," Shaw said on Sept. 26. "He's always had great tools. He's big and athletic. With him, sometimes less is more. Being as big and physically gifted as he is, he has been very effective for us when he plays within our structure. Now he's healthy, and that's a big thing for him and for our team."

Head coach John Tortorella added, "When he moves his legs, he's a really good player."

This season, Ristolainen's improved reliability has earned him a spot on Team Finland for the 4 Nations Face-Off. Originally drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 2013, this marks his first appearance with Team Finland since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

"It’s going to be huge," Ristolainen expressed after the roster announcement. “Always very honored to represent your country and particularly for this tournament. It’s best against the best which we haven’t had for a while and get to play with a lot of good friends so it will be very exciting.”

Meanwhile, Flyers goaltender Samuel Ersson was not selected for Sweden's 4 Nations roster despite a strong start to his season when healthy. Limited by injury to just 11 games this season, Ersson faced tough competition from other Swedish goalies such as Jacob Markstrom (New Jersey Devils), Linus Ullmark (Ottawa Senators), and Filip Gustavsson (Minnesota Wild).

In other news, Flyers' second-round pick Jack Berglund will join Team Sweden's roster for the IIHF World Junior Championships. The young center has shown promise playing both in Sweden's top junior league and professionally with Farjestad BK in the SHL.

Berglund's development trajectory suggests potential as a middle or bottom-six center in the NHL but possesses skills that could elevate him further with continued improvement.

Berglund hails from a hockey family; his father Christian Berglund played in the NHL before returning to Europe.