Potential Logjam on Defense
Signing Carlson would create a logjam on the right side, joining Rasmus Ristolainen, Drysdale, Jiricek, and Bonk.
This could force Bonk to the AHL, as he is waiver-exempt, while Jiricek is not.
Drysdale, who earned more minutes last season, might be pushed to a third-pair role.
Di Marco also reported the Flyers are open to trading Ristolainen, but they are not forced to do so given their cap space.
Without a trade, Carlson and Ristolainen would likely occupy top-four spots, limiting ice time for younger players.
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Despite the potential logjam, the benefits of adding a proven veteran like Carlson may outweigh the drawbacks. The Flyers can address the roster balance later in the offseason.
