Anaheim Ducks sign top prospect Roger McQueen to entry-level deal

McQueen won't be able to play in the NHL playoffs this season despite the new contract.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 11:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, abstract painting depicting a hockey player in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, red, and silver, conveying the raw energy and potential of a rising star.A cubist interpretation of a young hockey phenom's path to the NHL, deconstructed into dynamic geometric forms.San Diego Today

The Anaheim Ducks have signed 2025 10th overall draft pick Roger McQueen to a three-year entry-level contract, the team announced on Saturday. However, the contract won't take effect until the 2026-27 season, meaning McQueen will not be able to play for the Ducks in the upcoming NHL playoffs despite his new deal.

Why it matters

McQueen is considered one of the top young prospects in hockey, so Ducks fans are eager to see him make his NHL debut. While he won't be able to contribute this postseason, the signing is an important step in the team's long-term plans to build around the 6-foot-6 forward.

The details

McQueen is currently on an amateur tryout contract with the AHL's San Diego Gulls, where he has 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in 6 games. He was selected 10th overall by the Ducks in the 2025 NHL Draft after a standout season at Providence College, where he had 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 36 games. Prior to college, McQueen played in the WHL with the Brandon Wheat Kings and has represented Canada at various youth international tournaments.

  • The Ducks announced McQueen's entry-level contract on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • McQueen's contract will begin with the 2026-27 NHL season.

The players

Roger McQueen

A 6-foot-6 forward who was the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Anaheim Ducks. He is currently playing on an amateur tryout with the AHL's San Diego Gulls.

Anaheim Ducks

The NHL team that drafted and signed Roger McQueen to a three-year entry-level contract.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to have Roger join our organization and begin his professional career with the Ducks. He's a talented young player with a bright future, and we look forward to seeing him develop over the next few seasons.”

— Bob Murray, General Manager, Anaheim Ducks

What’s next

McQueen will continue playing with the AHL's San Diego Gulls on his amateur tryout contract for the remainder of this season. His entry-level deal with the Ducks will officially begin at the start of the 2026-27 NHL season.

The takeaway

While Ducks fans won't get to see their top prospect Roger McQueen suit up for the playoffs this year, the team has taken an important step in securing his long-term future by signing him to an entry-level contract. McQueen's size, skill, and international experience make him an exciting addition to Anaheim's prospect pool as they look to build a contender for the years ahead.