Social media exploded after an insane breakaway goal by top Avalanche prospect Cal Ritchie
Photo credit: Mike High Stickig
Will Calum Ritchie crack the Colorado Avalanche roster after his short audition during the 2024-25 season? He's making a pretty strong case, especially after Sunday night's game against the Utah Hockey Club.
Ritchie grabbed his first preseason goal against the Dallas Stars, and followed that up with his second on Sunday. His goal was pure skill and as a hockey fan, coach and player taught me something new as that move was on purpose.
Ritchie pulled off a slick move, faking a shot that made Utah's goalie, Karel Vejmelka, bite early, before calmly slotting it into the net.
Sure, NHL goalies won't fall for that as easily, but it was a glimpse of what this 19-year-old can do.
Ritchie's future with the Avalanche is still up in the air. Since he's too young to join the Colorado Eagles, his choices are either make the team or head back to the Oshawa Generals in the OHL. He was selected by Colorado in the first round (27th overall) in the 2023 NHL Draft but has yet to make his debut in the show.
While another season in the O could be good for his development, Ritchie's showing he's ready to fight for his spot in the NHL.
So, has he done enough to stay, or should the Avs be patient with his development? It'll be interesting to see how this plays out.
