The Anaheim Ducks have locked in their 25-man roster for the 2026-27 season, banking on a youth-heavy core as they head to Las Vegas for an October 2 road opener. The squad, comprised of 16 forwards, seven defensemen, and two goaltenders, blends internal draft picks with strategic veteran additions.
A Roster Built Through the Draft
The lineup reveals a clear organizational commitment to homegrown talent. Of the 25 players, 12 were drafted by the Ducks, while eight arrived via free agency and five were acquired through trades. The youth movement is stark: seven players are 22 or younger, including Nikita Klepov (18), Roger McQueen (19), Beckett Sennecke (20), Leo Carlsson (21), Cutter Gauthier (22), Tristan Luneau (22), and Pavel Mintyukov (22).
This core is anchored by five first-round picks, one each from the last five drafts. Alongside recent selections like Klepov and McQueen, the roster features established young pieces such as Carlsson and Mintyukov. They are joined by first-round picks brought in from other clubs, including Cutter Gauthier, Ryan Poehling, and Mikael Granlund.
Veteran Stability and Injury Setbacks
To stabilize the younger players, the front office signed three free agents: left wings A.J. Greer and Jeff Malott, and defenseman Nick Jensen. These additions provide needed depth for a group that retains 19 players from last season’s roster.
Finalizing the roster forced difficult decisions. Defenseman Travis Mitchell and goaltender Laurent Brossoit were reassigned to the San Diego Gulls, the organization’s American Hockey League affiliate. Meanwhile, the team begins the year with two notable absences: Troy Terry is on Injured Non-Roster status following hip surgery, and defenseman Ian Moore has been placed on Injured Reserve.
High Stakes in Las Vegas and Anaheim
The campaign kicks off Friday, October 2, against the Vegas Golden Knights. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. PT, with coverage available on Prime Video and FOX Los Angeles (KCOP channel 13), or via the Ducks Stream.
Two days later, the team returns to the Honda Center for its home debut. The Sunday, October 4, matchup against the Florida Panthers begins at 5 p.m. PT, with the same broadcast options available for the local audience.
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