There was also very little possibility the 28-year-old Czech-born character was going to see much action the rest of the season given Darryl Sutter’s penchant for riding his marquee goalie.
Rittich’s last start with the Flames came last Sunday in a 4-2 loss to Toronto, a team that likely had keen interest in him given how well he’s played against the Leafs throughout his 130-game career. “Don’t try to make a story here,” snapped the backup netminder, whose record is 4-7-1 on the season. “This is my team and I want to stay with this team as long as I can. I’m not even looking at the trade deadline.”
Rittich became a bit of a folk hero in Calgary shortly after being signed to a two-way deal out of the Czech Extraliga in 2016. As a pending unrestricted free agent the die was cast on Rittich’s future, as it was clear he’d have to move elsewhere this summer to chase his dreams of being a starter.
EricFrancis Don’t even have to look to see who the author of this article will be.
EricFrancis No it hasn't
EricFrancis 🤣
EricFrancis The Chronicles of Rittich
EricFrancis ...where the Leafs hope that he will not be called upon.
EricFrancis No Save Dave 😆