7 Anaheim Ducks Prospects Who Will See NHL Playing Time In 2025-26

The Anaheim Ducks did some solid revamping of their lineup and their top three lines look very deep and competitive. There aren't any stars that stand out yet, but there are players who will lead the group and do very well. Stars could also emerge though.

The defense is a good mix of older and younger, but the older is on its way out after the season, making room for what comes next and players like Olen Zellweger and Pavel Mintyukov to get more playing time to be satisfied. The goaltending should also be solid. What is concerning is the fourth line. There is a real drop-off, and that's mostly where we are going here. There are a number of prospects who should see playing time in the NHL next season based on the poor bottom of the lineup and potential injuries along the way. Let's dive in.

I identified five forwards and two defensive prospects who should see some playing time with the Ducks in 2025-26, whether that be for a couple of games as a trial or in a full-time role. Some have played in the NHL already, albeit very briefly, and others would be making their debuts. The Ducks don't have any top tier prospects, but young players good enough to come in and possibly surprise. Some will have places on the team moving forward.

While Jansen Harkins and Ross Johnston combined for 105 games last season, their point totals were abysmal, equaling three goals and 10 points along with low minutes. This should open the door for younger players. On offense, there is Sam Colangelo, Nikita Nesterenko, Sahsa Pastujov, Tim Washe, and Jan Mysak.

I'm confident in Colangelo and Nesterenko considering the two combined for 52 games last season and put up a combined 14 goals and 18 points. Colangelo will absolutely be on the team and he is a player that I can see being the first to slide up the lineup if someone comes out for an injury. Washe came out of university after a strong season and got into two games. I think he will have to start back in the AHL though. As for the other two, they had strong AHL seasons and have earned a little look in the NHL at one point if they keep it up.

On defense, the Ducks are already filled with Jackson LaCombe, Zellweger, Mintyukov, and Drew Helleson. All should have everyday roles complemented by big hitters Radko Gudas and Jacob Trouba. Beyond that, there is Tristan Luneau, who will be an everyday player soon enough, and Ian Moore, also coming out of university and playing some NHL and AHL games. He will get a look at both levels again.

The Ducks are set to do well with their core group, but do need confidence in some of their organization depth and next up players to help get them over the finish line.