Since the 2017-18 season, the Anaheim Ducks have failed to make the playoffs but have consistently secured top-10 draft picks for seven straight years, building one of the NHL’s most robust and promising prospect pools. Though several young talents like Leo Carlson, Cutter Gautier, Mason McTavish, Pavel Mintyukov, and Oren Zelweger have progressed to full-time NHL roles, the Ducks continue to boast a deep pipeline with significant potential impact players.
Lucas Dostal has undergone a remarkable transformation from an underrated goalie to one poised to compete among the NHL’s elite, highlighted by the Ducks signing him to a five-year contract extension alongside a two-year extension for Drew Helleson. This ranking focuses only on players still holding rookie status, based on subjective evaluations by Patrick Present.
Honorable mentions include Yegor Sidorov, Herman Met, Tarin Smith, Lasse Boelius, and Calle Clang.
At number 10 is Nathan Gaucher, a 21-year-old center with the San Diego Gulls (AHL). Choosing Gaucher over Sidorov was tough, but Gaucher’s position, style of play, and drafting background helped him clinch this spot. He’s expected to break into the NHL in the next few seasons and likely surpass 100 NHL games during his career. Gaucher is a heavy-hitting, right-shot center known for his relentless, defensively responsible play and exceptional skating ability. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 207 pounds, he excels in puck protection and physical play near the net.
Drafted 22nd overall in 2022, acquired via the trade involving Hampus Lindholm from Boston, Gaucher’s junior career with the Quebec Remparts saw him total 158 points in 199 games, plus 29 in 36 playoff appearances, leading to a QMJHL and Memorial Cup championship in 2023. He also earned two World Junior Championship gold medals in 2022 and 2023, contributing 6 points across 14 games.
Since turning pro with the San Diego Gulls in 2023-24, Gaucher’s offense has been modest, recording 44 points in 128 AHL games. However, his strong all-around game and defensive commitment have made him influential even when not scoring. He faced setbacks due to injuries, including a season-ending shoulder injury in the 2024-25 season that requires 4-6 months of recovery, anticipating full fitness by the next training camp.
The Ducks expect Gaucher to regain his offensive form while continuing to develop as a two-way player, potentially making his NHL debut within two seasons. Meanwhile, the Ducks also signed a one-year deal with Clan Myshark, and prospect Uljanskis plans to play in the CHL for the 2025-26 season.
Fan Take: This promising depth of young talent, especially players like Nathan Gaucher, signals a potentially exciting future for the Ducks, rekindling hope among fans for a return to playoff contention. For hockey enthusiasts, tracking these emerging players offers a glimpse into the next wave of NHL stars who could reshape the game with their skill and grit.
