""It's been great, obviously," Ritchie said. "You get a chance to play with guys like Cizikas and Palmieri in games, and every shift you're learning. You're coming back to the bench talking about what just happened, and you're picking up things every day from those guys.""
""It's not even comparable," Ritchie admitted. "Last year I was struggling a lot in the D-zone, giving up chances. This year I feel way more comfortable in our structure, closing on guys and not giving up much defensively.""
""He's awesome. His skating really stands out - those backchecks he's had are impressive. I played with him at World Juniors, and he's way better now. It's exciting to see how much he's improved.""
Calum Ritchie, a 20-year-old center, has advanced during New York Islanders training camp, earning preseason ice time with veterans Casey Cizikas and Kyle Palmieri and taking on penalty-kill responsibilities. Improved comfort in defensive-zone structure has reduced chances allowed and strengthened his ability to close on opponents. A return to Oshawa last season contributed to broader development, including confidence defending against top NHL players. Added special-teams versatility enhances roster value. Ritchie highlights teammate and roommate Matthew Schaefer's skating and backchecks and describes a growing off-ice friendship and shared daily routines.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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