The Flyers Postgame Live crew reacted immediately after the team’s 4‑1 win over the Canadiens on Tuesday night, noting that the move to place Egor Zamula on waivers feels inevitable now that the defense is fully healthy.
Flyers Move on Zamula
The club put Zamula on waivers Thursday. If he clears Friday, he can be loaned to the AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley. Zamula had played only 13 games this season, registering one assist and a plus‑4 rating. The 25‑year‑old struggled at times in the defensive zone and moving the puck with pace. His last appearance was 11 days ago when the Flyers fell 3‑2 to the NHL‑leading Avalanche, with Zamula and Noah Juulsen on the ice for two of Colorado’s goals.
> “They’re scratching and clawing,” Rick Tocchet said after the loss. “That’s what you’ve got to get from them, they’re trying.”
Ristolainen’s Return and Roster Impact
With Rasmus Ristolainen’s season debut on Tuesday, the Flyers now have seven defensemen, and Noah Juulsen serves as a reliable extra when needed. Ristolainen had been out of game action for over nine months, recovering from surgery in March on a second triceps tendon rupture. Zamula became the team’s eighth defenseman following Ristolainen’s return.
The Flyers made the decision on Zamula before the Dec. 20‑27 holiday roster freeze, leaving open the possibility of calling up a forward from the Phantoms. Tyson Foerster is out for the rest of the season after arm surgery, and Alex Bump could get a look at some point.
Upcoming Game and Future Outlook
The club plays its third game of a four‑game road trip Thursday, facing the Buffalo Sabres at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and Hulu.
Key Takeaways
- Zamula placed on waivers; can be loaned to Lehigh Valley if he clears.
- Ristolainen returns after nine‑month injury; Flyers now have seven defensemen.
- Flyers’ decision made before holiday roster freeze; potential Phantoms call‑up.
The Flyers’ roster moves underscore the team’s focus on solidifying defense while preparing for the road trip ahead.
