NHL Rumors: 2 Teams Linked to Nick Ritchie

We are four days into free agency, and Nick Ritchie remains without a home. However, things may change on that front quickly, as the Vancouver Canucks and San Jose Sharks are eyeing the power forward. 

The Canucks are hoping to add a bottom-six forward with size and grit, so it makes sense that Ritchie is a player who is reportedly on their radar. He would be a fit on their third or fourth line. Furthermore, due to his strong net-front presence ability, he would also be a candidate to receive power-play time. 

The Sharks, on the other hand, are aiming to improve their forward depth. Although they are rebuilding, they should be looking to add more NHL-caliber players to their group. Ritchie would be in the running to play middle-six minutes there if signed. If he performed well for San Jose in 2023-24, he would also be a solid trade candidate for them at the deadline. 

Alas, we will need to wait and see if any either of these two clubs bring in the former first-round pick. In 74 games this past season, Ritchie posted 13 goals and 26 points.

Photo Credit: Sergei Belski - USA TODAY Sports