NHL Insider makes a huge Cal Ritchie prediction NY Islanders fans would love to see

The New York Islanders have plenty of players who could determine whether they surprise people this season. Hockey insider Frank Seravalli believes Calum Ritchie could be the one who really changes their outlook.

In his 32 bold predictions for the 2026-27 NHL season, Seravalli predicted Ritchie will become a breakout performer for the Isles this season.

That's quite a leap for a 21-year-old entering his second full NHL season, but Ritchie quietly gave the Islanders plenty to build on as a rookie. He finished with 30 points in 65 games, and Seravalli believes he's capable of more than doubling that production this season.

"Very quietly, Ritchie collected 30 points in 65 games last season," Seravalli wrote. "He'll more than double that using his elite Hockey IQ and work rate in his sophomore season, and provide a dynamism desperately required for the all-star weekend hosts."

Doubling 30 points would put Ritchie north of 60, which would represent a significant development for an Islanders team that needs more offense from its younger players. It would also establish Ritchie as much more than simply another promising piece of the roster.

The Islanders acquired Ritchie as one of the centerpieces of the Brock Nelson trade, and last season offered glimpses of why the fanbase was so excited to get him in the deal. Ritchie has size and skill, but spent the summer talking about improving everything from his strength and skating to his shot, passing and ability to win battles.

Now comes the difficult part: turning potential into production.

Ritchie doesn't need to become a 60-point player for his second season to be considered a success. But if Seravalli's bold prediction is anywhere close, the Islanders suddenly have another young forward capable of becoming part of their long-term core.

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