Anaheim Ducks sign top draft pick Roger McQueen to amateur tryout agreement

The Anaheim Ducks have taken a significant step in securing their future by signing Roger McQueen, their 2025 first-round draft pick, to an amateur tryout (ATO) contract. This move, reported by the New York Times and NHL.com, allows McQueen to join the organization immediately and potentially participate in developmental games or practices as the season concludes. McQueen, a highly touted prospect, has been a standout in junior hockey and is expected to be a cornerstone of the Ducks' rebuilding process. The signing comes on the heels of a recent game recap where the Ducks faced off against the San Jose Sharks, highlighting the team’s current focus on integrating young talent into their professional system.

For the city of Anaheim, the arrival of Roger McQueen represents a beacon of hope for a franchise that has been looking to recapture its competitive edge. McQueen’s size and skill set make him a versatile asset for the Ducks, and his professional debut is highly anticipated by the local fanbase. The amateur tryout contract is a standard procedure for top prospects transitioning from amateur leagues to the NHL, providing them with a taste of the professional lifestyle without immediately burning a year of their entry-level contract. As the Ducks continue to navigate a challenging season, the focus is increasingly shifting toward the development of players like McQueen and the strategic use of their high draft picks.

McQueen’s signing is part of a broader trend in the NHL where teams are becoming more aggressive in bringing their top prospects into the fold early. The Anaheim Ducks organization has praised McQueen’s work ethic and leadership qualities, suggesting that he will be a natural fit for the team’s culture. As the Ducks look toward the 2026 season and beyond, the development of their young core will be the primary narrative. The recap of the ANA at SJS game serves as a reminder of the work that remains to be done, but the addition of a player of McQueen’s caliber provides a clear path forward. Fans in Anaheim are eager to see McQueen hit the ice and begin his journey toward becoming a regular in the Ducks' lineup, signaling the start of a new era for the team.