Avalanche’s Draft Day Triumph: Calum Ritchie and Mikhail Gulyayev Score Big

Avalanche Select Calum Ritchie and Mikhail Gulyayev in Draft Day 1

Calum Ritchie: A Promising Forward

The Colorado Avalanche made an interesting choice in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft by selecting forward Calum Ritchie with the 27th overall pick. Ritchie, an 18-year-old from Brampton, Ontario, had an impressive season with the Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League. Serving as the team’s alternate captain, Ritchie recorded 59 points (24 goals and 35 assists) in 59 regular-season games.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 184 pounds, Ritchie showcased his skill and versatility on the ice. He ranked third on the team in power-play points and fourth in goals, indicating his ability to contribute in key situations. In the playoffs, he tallied six points in five games, demonstrating his ability to step up when it matters most.

Throughout his OHL career, Ritchie accumulated an impressive total of 104 points (43 goals and 61 assists) in 124 games. He also had success in the postseason, adding 13 points in 11 games. As a rookie in the 2021-22 season, Ritchie put up 45 points in 65 games and was selected to the OHL First All-Rookie First Team. His performance caught the attention of NHL Central Scouting, moving him up from No. 17 to No. 13 in their final rankings for the 2023 NHL Draft.

In addition to his success in the OHL, Ritchie represented Canada at the 2023 IIHF U-18 World Championship, helping the team capture a bronze medal. He also secured a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, leading all skaters in points and assists.

Mikhail Gulyayev: A Young Defenseman with Potential

In the 31st overall pick, the Avalanche selected defenseman Mikhail Gulyayev from Novosibirsk, Russia. Gulyayev, also 18 years old, made his debut in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) during the 2022-23 season for Avangard Omsk, recording one assist in 13 games.

Prior to his KHL debut, Gulyayev played in Russia’s minor league, the VHL, where he collected four points in 12 outings for Omskie Krylya. He also skated in the MHL, Russia’s junior league, with Omskie Yastreby, tallying an impressive 25 points (2 goals and 23 assists) in 22 games. Gulyayev’s performance helped Omskie Yastreby reach the MHL final, where he contributed ten points in 17 postseason contests.

The young blueliner began his MHL career in the 2021-22 season, putting up 35 points (7 goals and 28 assists) in regular-season play. He continued to impress in the playoffs, adding five points in 13 games. Gulyayev’s skill did not go unnoticed by NHL Central Scouting, as he was ranked the 10th-best European skater in their final rankings for the 2023 NHL Draft.

Internationally, Gulyayev represented Russia at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he played a pivotal role in helping his country secure the gold medal.

Multifaceted Picks in the First Round

The Colorado Avalanche‘s decision to select Calum Ritchie and Mikhail Gulyayev in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft showcases their commitment to building a well-rounded and talented team.

Ritchie’s offensive prowess, leadership qualities, and international experience make him a promising addition to the Avalanche‘s forward lineup. His ability to contribute on the power play and perform in high-pressure situations suggests that he has the potential to become a key player for the team in the future.

Gulyayev, on the other hand, brings defensive skill and a strong presence to the blueline. His experience in both the KHL and the MHL demonstrates his adaptability and resilience as a young defenseman. With continued development, Gulyayev has the potential to become a reliable contributor on the Avalanche‘s defense.

Looking Ahead: Advice for the Avalanche

As the Colorado Avalanche continue through the later rounds of the 2023 NHL Draft, it is important for them to consider not only the skill and potential of the players but also their fit within the organization’s overall strategy and team dynamics.

Building a successful team requires a balance of offensive and defensive prowess, leadership, and versatility. The Avalanche‘s selections of Ritchie and Gulyayev in the first round demonstrate a commitment to these foundational principles.

As the draft continues, the Avalanche should continue to prioritize players who possess a strong work ethic, a strong hockey IQ, and the ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations. Additionally, maintaining a focus on development and nurturing young talent will be critical in ensuring the success of these draft picks.

Ultimately, the success of the Avalanche‘s draft picks will depend not only on their individual talent but also on the team’s ability to provide a supportive and inclusive environment that allows these young players to grow and flourish.