NHL Prospects: Flyers And Avalanche First-Rounders Gained Huge

Two NHL prospects headed back to the CHL with very valuable experience.

Every year there are a couple of CHL players who beat the odds and make their NHL clubs out of training camp. Calum Ritchie of the Colorado Avalanche and Jett Luchanko of the Philadelphia Flyers beat the odds to make their NHL clubs out of training camp. While neither of them stuck with their teams, both made an imprint in their time in the NHL.

Ritchie came into training camp expected to challenge for an extended look. The 2023 first-round pick came off an incredibly strong year with the OHL’s Oshawa Generals, where he helped lead them to the OHL final as arguably the league’s best player.

When the Avalanche had a few injuries in camp, Ritchie looked like he belonged, so it made sense to start him in the NHL.

As for Luchanko, the path wasn’t as clear for him after being drafted 13th overall in 2024. He had to earn every little bit of his opportunity.

There was no reason for the Flyers to rush their most recent first-rounder. After a solid season with the Guelph Storm last year, Luchanko’s stock skyrocketed as the year continued. His play in Flyers training camp drew rave reviews for his work ethic, skill and persistence. Luchanko exceeded all expectations, which made giving him a look in the regular season worthwhile.

Ultimately, Ritchie played seven NHL games, and Luchanko played in four. Ritchie scored his first NHL goal, but that was the only point between the two of them.

Playing in the AHL full-time is not an option for Ritchie and Luchanko because of the CHL-NHL transfer agreement, which prevents CHL-drafted players from going to the AHL until their age-20 season. The Avalanche and Flyers were forced to send their highly touted prospects back to junior hockey.

That said, the decisions made sense for both NHL squads. It was also a major boost for their junior clubs as they each got one of their best players back for the season. There is a very good…