Cal Ritchie showed he can matter down the stretch for NY Islanders vs. Devils

Dec 30, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Islanders center Calum Ritchie (64) warms up before a game against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images | Talia Sprague-Imagn ImagesNew York Islanders forward Cal Ritchie didn’t just return to the lineup Thursday night — he announced himself as a player who can matter down the stretch.

As recently as Saturday, the expectation inside the organization was that the 21-year-old center would be sidelined until after the Olympic break. Instead, Ritchie was in uniform against the New Jersey Devils, centering Jonathan Drouin and Emil Heineman, and playing a meaningful role in the Islanders’ 3-1 road win…