""But he felt great. When a player feels ready to go, why not?" Ritchie looked more than ready. In 13:54 of ice time, he showed no visible effects from the lower-body injury that had kept him out six games. He was engaged defensively, confident with the puck, and comfortable handling second-line responsibilities - a notable development for a team that has been searching for consistency down the middle."
""He was good," Roy said afterward. "Oh my god, he was good. He made some great plays with the puck, defended well. I was very happy with his play." That trust mattered. Ritchie's return came with Anthony Duclair scratched, underscoring the Islanders' growing emphasis on accountability and two-way reliability. Ritchie delivered exactly that, providing pace and structure while allowing his wingers to play to their strengths."
Cal Ritchie returned to the lineup sooner than expected and centered Jonathan Drouin and Emil Heineman in a 3-1 road win. He skated 13:54 with no visible effects from the lower-body injury that sidelined him for six games, showing defensive engagement, puck confidence, and comfort in second-line responsibilities. Coach Patrick Roy praised his play and decision to return when he felt ready. The team scratched Anthony Duclair, signaling a focus on accountability and two-way reliability. Ritchie reported quick rehabilitation progress and daily checks on how he felt, with no interest in waiting out the Olympic break.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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