The injury, sustained on February 27th, 2024, could have been promptly addressed, potentially allowing Ristolainen to bolster the team during the crucial final stretch of the season. In a season marked by a tight race for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, his absence was acutely felt.
This crucial procedure, conducted at the esteemed TMI Sports Medicine Institute in Arlington, Texas, was entrusted to the skilled hands of Dr. Keither Meister, renowned as the principal orthopedic surgeon for Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers.
Amidst a lineup plagued by injuries, Ristolainen's presence could have been pivotal, offering a glimmer of hope for playoff contention. However, the delay in addressing his injury has left fans pondering what could have been—a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of timely management decisions.
Now, with a three-month recovery ahead, Ristolainen aims to be ready for the start of training camp, but the missed opportunity for a playoff return remains a point of contention.