"Callum Ritchie wasted no time turning heads in his New York Islanders preseason debut, notching a goal and an assist while showing flashes of the skill set that made him one of the team's top prospects. Beyond the box score, the 20-year-old center demonstrated poise and hockey IQ that could force the Islanders' brass into difficult roster decisions in the coming weeks."
"Ritchie logged 17:50 of ice time against the Devils, a workload that reflected the coaching staff's willingness to test him against established NHL veterans like Nico Hischier. Patrick Roy praised his effort, noting that he "was doing a lot of good things and it's refreshing to see a young guy playing that way." For a player looking to prove he belongs, that kind of endorsement carries weight."
"Perhaps the most encouraging sign was Ritchie's presence on the power play. His first Islanders goal came on a 5-on-3, where he ripped a clean shot blocker-side. Later, he showcased vision by threading a pass to Emil Heineman for a one-timer that tied the game. Power-play trust is not handed out lightly to rookies - and it suggests Roy is willing to see if Ritchie can fill an immediate role."
Callum Ritchie scored a goal and added an assist in his New York Islanders preseason debut while showing notable poise and hockey IQ. He logged 17:50 of ice time against the Devils, drawing matchup minutes against players like Nico Hischier. Coaching staff praise and power-play usage accompanied his performance. His first Islanders goal came on a 5-on-3 and he later threaded a pass to Emil Heineman for a game-tying one-timer. Ritchie faces competition within a crowded forward group, but his two-way play, faceoff ability, and special-teams impact could create NHL opportunities.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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