Anaheim Ducks Sign Top Prospect to Amateur Tryout

McQueen arrives following a strong freshman campaign at Providence College. Notably, he was named Hockey East Rookie of the Year and earned All-Rookie Team honours. He recorded 11 goals and 16 assists for 27 points in 36 games, finishing among the team’s top contributors.

Furthermore, his impact extended beyond scoring. McQueen ranked eighth nationally among rookies with 313 faceoff wins and posted a 55.1 percent success rate. At 6-foot-6 and over 200 pounds, he combined size with offensive skill, providing a consistent presence down the middle. Meanwhile, he completed the season without missing a game, which marked a positive step after an injury-affected junior year.

However, some public models suggest his development remained relatively flat during his draft-plus-one season. Data from Hockey Prospecting indicates limited year-over-year progression compared to peers, adding context to his current development timeline.

Development Path Begins in San Diego

The decision for McQueen to sign an ATO reflects a deliberate development strategy. Moreover, the Ducks can evaluate him in a professional environment without committing to an entry-level contract. This approach preserves contract flexibility while allowing him to gain meaningful experience.

Before joining Providence, McQueen recorded 86 points in 127 WHL games with the Brandon Wheat Kings. However, his final junior season was shortened by injury, making his healthy NCAA campaign particularly important. His transition to the AHL now offers a clearer benchmark against pro competition.

Meanwhile, the Gulls are pushing for a playoff spot, which ensures McQueen will enter a competitive environment immediately. That setting should provide valuable insight into how his game translates at the next level.

What It Means for the Ducks

Although McQueen signs as a prospect, the move carries longer-term implications for Anaheim. The Ducks currently feature a deep group of centres, limiting any immediate NHL opportunity. As a result, there is no urgency to accelerate his timeline.

Instead, this stint in San Diego functions as a controlled evaluation phase. Meanwhile, it allows the organization to assess how close McQueen is to competing for a roster spot next season. If he adapts quickly, Anaheim could consider an entry-level contract ahead of 2026–27.