Does anyone know much about Rittich? I remember the signing and not really caring at the time - just thought it was a decent way for the Flames to fill out their AHL roster. But as time goes on, it looks like Rittich could have an NHL future.
How did the Flames find him? His stats in the Czech league don't really stand out, but clearly the Flames saw something in him.
IIRC, it was mentioned that a few teams (never found out which ones) were actively trying to sign Rittich. I assume he chose the Flames since the Flames had no goalies signed with NHL experience for this season at the time (June 13th). Hiller, Ramo, Backstrom and Ortio were all expected not to be re-signed (well, there was still talks going on with Ortio).
Hopefully he continues to do well and pushes for a spot on the big club in time. You never know. Even if he develops into a solid backup, that is a huge win for this organization who have struggled to find capable backups.
I feel like Andersson will have an outside chance of making the Flames as well. Might come down to who we have signed for next season, but losing either Kulak or Jokipakka to Vegas will open up a spot.
I feel like Andersson will have an outside chance of making the Flames as well. Might come down to who we have signed for next season, but losing either Kulak or Jokipakka to Vegas will open up a spot.
We are also potentially losing Engelland and Wideman, so the Flames defence could look pretty bare.
I feel like Andersson will have an outside chance of making the Flames as well. Might come down to who we have signed for next season, but losing either Kulak or Jokipakka to Vegas will open up a spot.
Yeah, I was just referring to forwards. The D could be wide open.
Though, I think they'll re-sign Engelland, because losing him, Wideman, and possibly Jokipakka would be too much in one year. Of course if that were to happen, they would have cap space to hit the FA market.