EXCLUSIVE: Cal Ritchie Embracing Playoff Hockey Opportunity With Bridgeport Islanders
Cal Ritchie could have shut it down after a strong rookie season, but instead joins Bridgeport for the Calder Cup Playoffs to keep building his game.
BRIDGEPORT, CT — It would have been understandable if New York Islanders rookie forward Cal Ritchie chose to begin his offseason recovery after wrapping up his first NHL campaign.
The 21-year-old had just endured the grind of a full season, managing a few bumps and bruises along the way while putting together an impressive first season on Long Island.
In 65 games, Ritchie recorded 30 points (13 goals, 17 assists). Over the final 24 games following the Olympic break, he tallied 15 points (six goals, nine assists)—fourth-most on the Islanders during that stretch.
But instead of shutting it down, Ritchie felt good about where his game was—and saw an opportunity.
Joining Bridgeport for the Calder Cup Playoffs was a no-brainer.