Friday Reflections: Ritchie Had to Leave

Unfortunately, everything good eventually comes to a close, and that includes Calum Ritchie’s initial experience playing in the NHL. However, was it really beneficial?

The 19-year-old had an opportunity to join the team due to the Avalanche’s forward line being plagued with injuries. During the preseason and training camp, he demonstrated his ability to compete with NHL-level players and showed a unique flair not often seen in the Avs’ usual roster of late first-round picks with potential and defensive skills.

However, once the season started, he frequently appeared confused (negative!), had the lowest possession statistics on the team (negative!), and although he did manage to score his first NHL goal (positive!), he didn’t contribute to any others (negative!) and was present for six goals against (negative!). Everything occurred within a short, protected timeframe and a bit of time with a man advantage.

Was it reasonable to anticipate Cal becoming a standout player in the NHL before he reached 20 years old? No, the team required expertise in the forward group, which Ritchie lacked. As the number of injuries increased on the wings (RIP Ross Colton), it was evident that player #71 would not take advantage of the situation.

So, ultimately, was it beneficial despite the unsuccessful outcome? Absolutely, without a doubt, Ritchie may not have been fully prepared, but he demonstrated the skills that elevated him to a top prospect and the excellent mindset that truly won over his coaches and teammates. He possesses the hockey intelligence and talent to have an impact in every area of the game, he only requires an increase in his self-assurance and processing speed in order to be prepared for his next opportunity on the team.

I graded all of the players on Fridays last season. This involved me using numerous words to emphasize that Nathan MacKinnon excelled while Jack Johnson lagged behind.

This season, I will continue evaluating the players as per my role as a journalist by using labels like Thotties and Naughties, leaving the others for your judgement. I understand I shouldn’t rely on you to develop your own thoughts – but I’m prepared to take that chance in order to improve this column by making it more concise. Let’s dive in.

Incredible how much can change in just one week! Following two subpar performances filling in for Alexandar Georgiev, Annunen made his debut as a starter and secured three consecutive victories, conceding only four goals on 79 shots and displaying composure and expertise throughout the games. I enjoy witnessing it.

Situation has changed drastically in just a week, shifting from being the preferred starter for Coach Jared Bednar to now having to compete with Kaapo Kahkonen for his job as a backup goalie. I doubt that will occur, but Georgiev needs to be concerned at this moment.
Ross Colton scored seven goals, four of which were on the powerplay, to lead the team!? Colton seized the chance to play in top line and PP minutes and excelled, proving that he deserves to remain on both units, even when the Avs have other forwards return from injury.

Ross Colton’s Hand – As expected, the injury bug struck him consistently, creating a spot for him alongside Mikko Rantanen on Nathan MacKinnon’s wing. After Colton’s hand was hit during the follow-through of a shot, he waited for a minute before playing again. Hopefully, it’s just temporary and he won’t be absent from the lineup for too long.

The child scored his initial NHL goal, taking over Colton’s position on the powerplay! He took over Colton’s position on the first line during even strength and seemed capable of maintaining it. His hockey intelligence and determination seem limitless in terms of their potential, but facing tough competition for an extended period would be a major challenge.