Proposed Blockbuster Trade Sends Veteran Defenseman to Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars spent much of the offseason clearing cap space, parting ways with forwards Mason Marchment and defenseman Matt Dumba in separate deals. These moves helped create the financial flexibility needed to work on extensions for key players like Matt Duchene and Jamie Benn. 
Despite the roster shuffling, the Stars remain firmly in win-now mode. They’ve made three straight appearances in the Western Conference Final, falling short each time but consistently proving they’re among the league’s elite. With a strong core still intact, Dallas isn’t looking to rebuild — they’re reloading.
Led by young stars Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston, a rejuvenated Duchene, and elite blueliner Miro Heiskanen, the Stars are poised for another deep playoff run. However, if they want to take that next step and lift the Stanley Cup, they’ll need to address some lingering issues — particularly on defense.
That’s where a bold trade proposal from Heavy.com comes in, suggesting a potential deal between the Stars and the Philadelphia Flyers.
Proposed Trade:
-
Dallas Stars receive:
Rasmus Ristolainen (with 50% of his salary retained) -
Philadelphia Flyers receive:
Ilya Lyubushkin
2027 first-round pick
2026 second-round pick
Ristolainen: A Physical Fit for Dallas
Though his early years in Philadelphia were rocky, Rasmus Ristolainen has settled into a reliable second-pairing role. While he may never be a top-pair shutdown guy, his physicality and defensive presence could fill a gap in Dallas’ blue line.
The right side of the Stars’ defense has been a weakness in recent years — an area where Ristolainen’s gritty style could make a real impact. He thrives in tight-checking situations and excels at limiting high-danger chances, making him an ideal fit in a playoff setting.
A Price Worth Paying?
Right-shot defensemen are always in demand, especially in a seller’s market like this. With the Flyers expected to retain half of Ristolainen’s $5.1 million cap hit, the cost of acquiring him naturally rises. Though parting with a first and second-round pick, along with Lyubushkin, is steep, the return could be exactly what Dallas needs to push through to a Stanley Cup Final.
The Final Piece of the Puzzle?
The Stars made a splash last season by acquiring forward Mikko Rantanen, and if they’re serious about completing their roster for another deep postseason run, Ristolainen could be the missing piece on the back end.
With a new head coach behind the bench, adjustments are inevitable — but the team’s core strengths and weaknesses remain largely the same. Better play in front of the net is critical, and adding a rugged, dependable veteran like Ristolainen could finally help Dallas go from perennial contender to champion.
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