The Calgary native scored 19 goals with 25 assists for 44 points in 47 games with the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League (WHL) before seven points (three goals, four assists) in five playoff games with a weaker Raiders team:
Ritchie also represented Team Canada at the 2024 World Juinor Championships, scoring four goals with four assists in seven games:
Taken at face value, Ritchie’s offensive numbers don’t suggest first-round pick material. Fellow prospect and 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup linemate Berkly Catton scored 116 points in 68 WHL games.
Ritchie’s skills and attributes make up for his lackluster point totals, though, as he’s a well-rounded duel-threat winger and a highly proficient skater.
His acceleration makes him dangerous off the rush, using his quick hands and decision-making to either shoot or make a pass after drawing defenders.
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According to EliteProspects , Ritchie’s shot is a “constant threat” with “zero tells.” While Ritchie did not light the lamp much this season, his shot certainly has high upside.
Ritchie rounds out at 6’ 0” and a modest 176 pounds, but his compete level is elite.
As one of the few consistent threats for the Raiders this last season, Ritchie put in the work for every shift. According to assistant director of scouting Derek Neumeier at McKeen’s Hockey, Ritchie’s effort level “is arguably his strongest attribute.”
The consensus for Ritchie’s draft ranking from scouts is the end of the first round or the start of the second round. However, some have him higher— Bob McKenzie of TSN, whose ranking is supported by the opinions of NHL scouts, has Ritchie at pick No. 21. Nevertheless, Ritchie will likely be available for the Islanders in the first round.
Why would Ritchie be a good fit for the Islanders?
For starters, Ritchie is one of the most complete players in the draft. He is a versatile and multidimensional player, which means that there is less risk through development.
Ritchie also presents a sleeper pick with untapped offensive upside. With a stronger team and more time to develop, Ritchie can translate his elite skills into heightened production.
The Islanders have two right-wing prospects in 2020 5th-round pick William Dufour and 2022 5th-round pick Matthew Maggio, which could conflict with picking Ritchie.
However, this year’s draft lacks center depth, so other teams may prioritize picking centers early; on draft night, a winger like Ritchie might be the best available. Ritchie’s game also differs from those of Dufour and Maggio, so he would add a new element to the Islanders’ prospect pool.
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