NY Islanders announce Calum Ritchie injury timeline after leaving Friday night's game

The New York Islanders announced Friday that Calum Ritchie will miss one to two weeks with a lower-body injury sustained in Thursday’s preseason matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers. The 20-year-old center exited the game early and did not return. The injury makes what was being categorized as a hard decision, one that Patrick Roy doesn't have to make regarding the opening night lineup.

Ritchie, who played seven games in the NHL last season with Colorado before being acquired by the Islanders, had been making a strong impression in camp. He recorded a goal and an assist in his preseason debut and was even trusted by coach Roy to take late defensive shifts against top competition. That momentum is now on pause.

Prior to his injury, Ritchie had been talking about the progress he's made at camp, given the opportunity to skate alongide veteran Islanders forwards. “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.”

The timing is unfortunate for the 2023 first-round pick, who was battling for one of the final roster spots down the middle. With Jean-Gabriel Pageau retained and Mathew Barzal shifting back to center, Ritchie was already facing a steep climb to crack the lineup.

While the injury could tilt the decision toward starting the year in Bridgeport, Ritchie has clearly left an impression on the coaching staff. Should the Islanders need reinforcements once healthy, he’ll likely be among the first call-ups.

For now, the Isles will monitor his progress as the regular season draws near.