3 AHL players who could be called up to the NY Islanders this season

The injury bug has run rampant on Long Island the last two seasons, forcing the NY Islanders to dig into their AHL roster for reinforcements. While the hope is to remain healthy for the duration of the season, it's impossible not to endure some types of injuries over an 82-game schedule.

Unlike last season, when the Bridgeport Islanders' roster was thin to start the season, there is much more depth within the organization heading into 2025-26.

If Mathieu Darche needs to make call-ups from Bridgeport, he has some young players who could be ready to fill in a role, whether it be for a few games or long term.

Here are three players expected to start the season in Bridgeport who could see NHL time this season:

Calum Ritchie

When the Islanders acquired Calum Ritchie, it was a crucial step in retooling the prospect pool. The 27th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft by the Colorado Avalanche, Ritchie made the Avs roster out of training camp last season before being returned to the Oshawa Generals of the OHL.

On most NHL teams, Ritchie would likely start the season in the NHL, but the Islanders are deep at center, and he'll likely start the season in Bridgeport simply due to numbers. If the Islanders sustain an injury down the middle, Ritchie is capable of slotting into center on the third line as a strong two-way forward. It's hard to imagine him not seeing NHL time this season, as he could force Darche's hand earlier if he gets off to a hot start.

Isaiah George

When Isaiah George was called up last season, most thought it was too early for the young defenseman. But George quickly changed everyone's minds, logging big minutes just a few games into his NHL career.

George played 33 games with the Isles last season, recording one goal and four assists before being returned to Bridgeport. If Matthew Schaefer starts the season with the Islanders, as it appears he will, that'll leave George as the odd man out. But proven by his play last season, the young blue liner has a bright career ahead of him, and has the trust of his head coach.

Gleb Veremyev

One of the most sought-after NCAA free agents, Gleb Veremyev, is a physical forward, capable of playing down the middle or on the wing. In his first NHL preseason game, the former Colorado College Tiger recorded three hits, the second most of any Islanders player, despite playing just 9:25.

Built for the fourth line, Veremyev could step into that role if injury forces Casey Cizikas or Max Tsyplakov higher up the pecking order.