Ritchie ready to take next step toward spot on Avalanche roster

The forward prospect, who has successfully recovered from a torn labrum, is determined to enhance every aspect of their game.

DENVER — Calum Ritchie entered Colorado Avalanche development camp last week with the goal of earning his first NHL contract. He thought it might take until training camp in September, or even preseason, but it came just days later.

After signing a three-year, entry-level contract on Monday, the Avalanche have welcomed the 19-year-old forward to their team. His main priority now is to demonstrate his skills and secure a spot on the roster.

Ritchie, who was chosen by Colorado with the No. 23 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, expressed his determination to give his best in the rookie camp and main camp in order to earn a spot. Despite acknowledging the tough challenge ahead, Ritchie emphasized his confidence in himself and eagerly anticipates the opportunity.

After undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum last year, Ritchie eagerly joined the camp as a full participant, feeling thrilled to no longer be a mere spectator from the sidelines.

He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to participate in activities and connect with individuals in the organization, despite not being able to be on the ice last year. He emphasized the importance of working hard and heeding the advice of knowledgeable individuals within the organization. He aimed to absorb as much information as possible and make overall improvements to his game.

For the past year, Ritchie has been actively listening to Brian Willsie, who serves as the Avalanche director of player development.

Ritchie expressed his gratitude towards Brian Willsie and the development team for their constant support and guidance throughout the season. He mentioned how he had frequent conversations with Brian, discussing ways to enhance his skills on a daily basis. Ritchie believed that the continuous efforts and assistance from Brian and the development team greatly contributed to his significant improvement over the course of the season.

Following a period of rehabilitation during the summer, Ritchie wrapped up his third season with Oshawa in the Ontario Hockey League. He emerged as the top scorer for the team, amassing an impressive 80 points consisting of 28 goals and 52 assists, all accomplished within a mere 50 games.

He expressed, “I believed it was a successful season overall. Admittedly, the beginning didn’t meet my expectations. However, after the Christmas break, I felt like I truly regained my form, and our team followed suit, resulting in a remarkable turnaround. We clinched the top spot in our conference and advanced to the (OHL) finals. Unfortunately, we fell short, losing to London in a six-game series.”

After concluding his junior hockey career, Willsie is eager to witness Ritchie (standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 185 pounds), a native of Oakville, Ontario, further enhance his muscle mass for the upcoming main camp in the fall.

Willsie expressed that undergoing surgery during the summer has significant consequences, particularly for a hockey player in their crucial developmental years. Missing out on valuable time for growth and improvement, it becomes challenging to seamlessly reintegrate into the team by mid-November. However, despite these obstacles, the player managed to have a successful year, contributing significantly to Oshawa’s achievements and playing an extensive amount of minutes in junior hockey. Considering the physical demands and exertion endured during this period, it is imperative for him to prioritize his nutrition and off-ice training during this upcoming summer.

“We eagerly anticipate his return to our premises in late August or early September, after sending him home.”