Flyers sign defenceman Rasmus Ristolainen to a five-year extension

The Philadelphia Flyers are rewarding one of their top blue liners with a new contract.

The team announced that they have inked veteran defenceman Rasmus Ristolainen to a five-year, $25.5 million contract extension that carries an average annual value of $5.1 million.

“I’m very happy and I really wanted to stay. It’s a great feeling to have it done before the deadline,” said Ristolainen.

“I love this city. I love the fans. I love my teammates and I want to be here when we turn it around next year”

The deal breaks down as follows: $4 million in 2022/23, $5.5 million in 2023/24, $6.5 million in 2024/25, $5.5 million in 2025/26 and $5.4 million in the final season during 2026/27.

The 27-year old, who was acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres last summer, has posted two goals, 11 assists and a minus-11 rating in 49 games this season.