What's Happening?
The Anaheim Ducks have signed center Roger McQueen to an Amateur Tryout Agreement (ATO) with the San Diego Gulls, their primary development affiliate in the American Hockey League (AHL). McQueen, a 19-year-old forward, was recognized as the Hockey East
Rookie of the Year and was named to the conference’s All-Rookie Team following a successful season at Providence College. During his time at Providence, McQueen scored 27 points in 36 games, showcasing his skills with a +5 rating and 45 penalty minutes. He was a first-round pick by Anaheim in the 2025 NHL Draft and has a notable history in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Brandon Wheat Kings, where he accumulated 86 points over 127 games. McQueen's signing is seen as a strategic move to provide him with professional experience and further his development in the sport.
Why It's Important?
This signing is significant for both McQueen and the Anaheim Ducks organization. For McQueen, joining the AHL provides a critical opportunity to gain professional experience and develop his skills further, which is essential for his transition to the NHL. For the Ducks, this move strengthens their development pipeline, ensuring that promising young talent like McQueen is nurtured effectively. The AHL serves as a crucial stepping stone for players aiming to make it to the NHL, and having a player of McQueen's caliber in their system could enhance the team's future performance. Additionally, McQueen's international experience, including gold medals with Team Canada, adds a competitive edge to his profile, potentially benefiting the Ducks in the long run.
What's Next?
Roger McQueen will now join the San Diego Gulls, where he will have the chance to play additional games and gain valuable experience in a professional setting. This period will be crucial for his development, as it will test his adaptability and readiness for the NHL. The Ducks will likely monitor his progress closely, assessing his performance and growth. If McQueen excels in the AHL, he could be considered for a call-up to the NHL, depending on the Ducks' needs and his readiness. This transition phase will be pivotal in determining his future role within the organization.
