Rasmus Ristolainen is a professional ice hockey player from Turku, Finland, born on October 27, 1994. He plays as a defenseman, known for his right-handed shots. Ristolainen began his National Hockey League (NHL) career after being selected eighth overall in the first round of the 2013 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres. He made his NHL debut in the 2013 season, marking the start of a consistent career in the league.
Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 208 pounds, Ristolainen is recognized for his physical play and defensive skills. He joined the Philadelphia Flyers, where he continued to solidify his role as a key player in the defensive lineup. Throughout his career, Ristolainen has accumulated significant experience, now in his 12th NHL season.
During the 2025 regular season, Ristolainen played seven games, recording two assists and maintaining a shooting percentage of 0.0, with an average of 1.71 shots per game. His defensive contributions include 12 blocked shots and 10 hits, demonstrating his commitment to the defensive side of the game.
Ristolainen's career has faced challenges, including injuries. In March 2025, he suffered a triceps injury, sidelining him for several weeks. Despite setbacks, his dedication to recovery and resilience has defined his professional journey. As an experienced defenseman, Ristolainen continues to be a valuable asset to any team's defensive line.