Anaheim Ducks Sign 2026 First-Round Pick Nikita Klepov to Entry-Level Contract

In a bold move that has captured the attention of hockey fans, the Anaheim Ducks announced on Saturday that they have signed 2026 first-round pick Nikita Klepov to a three-year entry-level contract. This decision adds a fresh talent to their roster as the offseason progresses.

The Ducks selected Klepov, an 18-year-old winger, with the 15th overall pick, a selection acquired from the St. Louis Blues in a deal that sent Mason McTavish to St. Louis. Along with the 15th pick, the Ducks also received the 29th overall pick, which later became the 28th pick, used to draft Marcus Nordmark.

General manager Pat Verbeek previously indicated that the Ducks would not have made the trade had Klepov not been available at 15, expressing confidence in the young forward’s potential for a “fast track” to the NHL. However, few could have predicted just how quickly that track would materialize, especially since Klepov had committed to play at Michigan State University for the upcoming season.

With the signing, Klepov’s collegiate plans are off the table, along with any possibility of playing in the AHL, as he will not turn 19 until the season begins. His options now are clear: either make the Ducks’ roster or return to the Saginaw Spirit of the OHL, where he excelled last season.

In the 2025-26 season, Klepov showcased his elite skills by leading the OHL in scoring with an impressive 97 points (37 goals, 60 assists) over 67 regular-season games, earning him the OHL Rookie of the Year award. He also added five points in four playoff games, reinforcing the belief that he may have outgrown junior hockey and is ready for the challenges of the NHL.

Standing at 6 feet and weighing 186 pounds, Klepov is known for his offensive prowess, drawing comparisons to Nikita Kucherov. His game is characterized by creativity, intelligence, and a relentless drive to find the back of the net. Klepov excels in all three zones but is particularly effective in the offensive zone, where he orchestrates plays with confidence and precision.

Originally from Deerfield Beach, Florida, but raised in Russia until 2023, Klepov has the potential to represent the United States at the 2027 World Junior Championship, should the Ducks decide to loan him out. This mirrors the path taken by Shane Wright with the Seattle Kraken in the 2022-23 season.

As the Ducks prepare for the upcoming season, they might follow a similar strategy to the one employed with Leo Carlsson in 2023-24, selectively scratching players to maximize training and prevent fatigue. If Klepov performs well, he could see significant ice time, similar to what Beckett Sennecke experienced last season, where his immediate impact led to consistent play.

The Ducks face some challenges ahead of the regular season, with Cutter Gauthier still unsigned and limited cap space. With Troy Terry expected to miss the first couple of months, the team may need to make a move to create room for young talents like Klepov to step into the lineup.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.