Ducks Make Strategic Moves on Day 1 of 2026 Free Agency

The Anaheim Ducks were busy on the opening day of the 2026 free agency period, making several signings as they look to reshape their roster. While they decided to let most of their pending unrestricted free agents walk, with the exception of A.J. Greer, the Ducks turned their attention to adding new talent.

Among their initial signings was a two-year, two-way contract for Caulfield, who had spent the previous season under an AHL-only deal with the San Diego Gulls. Acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins in March 2023, Caulfield is coming off his best professional season, having played a significant role as a physical forward on the Gulls’ checking line alongside Nathan Gaucher. With a spot in the Ducks’ bottom six uncertain, Caulfield may find himself vying for an NHL roster position this fall.

Another notable signing was that of Jensen, who inked a two-year contract with an average annual value of $2.25 million. At 35, he becomes the veteran presence on the right side of the Ducks’ defense after the departures of Carlson, Trouba, and Gudas. Jensen brings nearly 700 NHL games of experience, having spent the last two seasons with the Ottawa Senators. However, following a torn meniscus that required surgery, it’s uncertain if he will slot into the top defensive pairing alongside Jackson LaCombe.

The Ducks also acquired Woo, a second-round pick from the 2018 draft, who has spent the last nine seasons in the Vancouver Canucks organization. After being traded to the San Jose Barracuda in March, he played a pivotal role in the Abbotsford Canucks’ Calder Cup victory in 2025. Although Woo has yet to make his NHL debut, his age and experience could present him an opportunity to break into the Ducks’ lineup as defensive depth becomes crucial.

Additionally, the Ducks signed Schueneman to a two-way deal. Undrafted out of Western Michigan University, he has navigated through the NHL and AHL since his debut in 2019. With over 400 AHL games under his belt, Schueneman can contribute offensively when necessary, providing a steady veteran presence for the Gulls as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Hamblin, another signing, joins the Ducks after spending his career primarily in the Edmonton Oilers’ system. He has had brief stints in the NHL but has served as an alternate captain for the Bakersfield Condors in recent seasons, showcasing his scoring ability. With potential changes in the Gulls’ lineup, Hamblin could serve as an effective replacement.

Malott arrives from the Los Angeles Kings, having made his NHL debut with the Winnipeg Jets in the 2021-22 season. He played 58 games last season, contributing nine points while establishing himself as a gritty player. Malott’s playing style mirrors that of Jeff Viel, who recently signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning, suggesting he will likely find a spot on the Ducks’ fourth line alongside Tim Washe.

In goal, Brossoit is expected to take on a role similar to that of Ville Husso from the previous season, providing reliable goaltending in the AHL while being ready for an NHL call-up. After missing the entire 2024-25 season due to hip surgery, Brossoit has made strides back to the NHL, appearing in 26 AHL games and one game for the San Jose Sharks. With his addition, the Gulls now have a competitive goaltending situation as they prepare for the season ahead.

Lastly, Mitchell, who spent the last four seasons with the New York Islanders, joins the Ducks after making his NHL debut last season. Standing at 6-foot-4, he adds height to the Ducks’ defensive lineup. Although the left side of the defense is more crowded, Mitchell’s presence will bolster the Gulls’ blue line along with Schueneman and emerging prospect Stian Solberg.

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