Former Top-10 Pick Leaves NHL, Signs in Finland

After his brother Brett made his way across the pond to play hockey, younger brother Nick decided to follow suit. That's right, the Ritchie brothers are now both playing hockey in Europe after Nick Ritchie signed a one-year deal with Karpat of Finland's Liiga, this according to Chris Johnston of The Athletic.

Nick Ritchie has signed with Oulun Kärpät in Finland. He attended #stlblues training camp on a PTO and was released before the season.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) November 25, 2023

The former 10th overall pick from the 2014 draft appeared in 74 games last season split between the Arizona Coyotes and Calgary Flames and registered 13 goals, 26 points and 218 hits. After signing a PTO with the St Louis Blues, Ritchie showed well and ended up even dropping the gloves during his tryout, but unfortunately his foot speed is holding him back from the NHL game.

Ritchie was originally selected by the Anaheim Ducks and played parts of five seasons with the club. He's also appeared in games for the Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and as mentioned Arizona and Calgary.

Nick Ritchie BEST Highlights as a part of the #Flames !!!!!

Must Watch! ▶️👇⬇️ pic.twitter.com/zGVqy3MEH8
— Zeke (@AverageFan_Z) April 12, 2023

481 career NHL games under Ritchie's belt, including 84 goals and 186 points. He's hoping a good showing overseas can get himself back on the NHL radar and he'll sign back into the National League next summer. The 6-foot-3 27-year-old winger has earned just under $12 million in his career to this point.

Leaf fans, remember this...?