In July 2021, forward Nick Ritchie signed a two-year, $5 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, bringing his talents from the Boston Bruins. The 25-year-old Ontario native had a productive 2020-2021 season with Boston, recording 26 points (15 goals, 11 assists) in 56 regular-season games and adding four points (one goal, three assists) in 11 playoff appearances. citeturn0search2
Ritchie’s decision to join Toronto was influenced by his hometown ties and the team’s competitive roster. Growing up in Orangeville, Ontario, approximately 50 miles from Toronto, he expressed enthusiasm about returning to play for his hometown team. citeturn0search0
Throughout his NHL career, Ritchie has accumulated 137 points (59 goals, 78 assists) in 350 regular-season games with the Anaheim Ducks and Boston Bruins, along with nine points (six goals, three assists) in 38 playoff games. citeturn0search2
In his first season with the Maple Leafs (2021-2022), Ritchie contributed 13 goals and 15 assists over 82 games. However, he was placed on waivers in January 2023 and subsequently claimed by the Arizona Coyotes, where he played the remainder of the season, recording 10 goals and 12 assists in 58 games.
Ritchie’s tenure with the Maple Leafs was marked by his consistent offensive contributions and physical play, solidifying his role as a valuable middle-six forward during his time in Toronto.
