October 23rd 2024.
Calum Ritchie's first taste of the NHL has come to an end, as the Colorado Avalanche has announced they are sending their top prospect back to Oshawa in the Ontario Hockey League. Despite being a highly sought-after player, with a first-round pick in the 2023 draft, Ritchie only managed to score one goal in his seven games with the Avs.
The decision to send Ritchie back to Oshawa was looming for the Avalanche, as the 19-year-old cannot play in the AHL due to being drafted from a Canadian junior league. This left the team with the choice of either keeping him on the NHL roster or returning him to his junior team.
Ritchie initially made the team out of training camp, thanks in part to missing players and an injured forward on opening night. While he showed glimpses of his potential to become a star in the league, he also struggled to keep up with the fast-paced and physical nature of the NHL. Despite starting on the second line, he was eventually moved down to the third line and often found himself benched in the third period by coach Jared Bednar.
However, returning to Oshawa may not be a bad thing for Ritchie. The team is expected to have a strong season and potentially make a deep playoff run, giving him valuable experience. Additionally, if he stays healthy, he is a sure bet to play for Team Canada in the World Junior Championships.
Once his OHL season is over, Ritchie will have the option to join the AHL's Colorado Eagles or return to the Avalanche. In the meantime, the Avs have recalled Chris Wagner to take his place in the lineup for their upcoming game against the Utah Hockey Club, marking the team's first-ever meeting with this opponent.
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