Judd Caulfield Made Anaheim Ducks Opening-Night Roster

The forward earned his spot after a productive campaign with the San Diego Gulls last season.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hockey

Judd Caulfield Made Anaheim Ducks Opening-Night Roster

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Judd Caulfield secured a place on the Anaheim Ducks opening-night NHL roster. He joins a squad featuring 16 forwards following his performance during the 2025-26 season.

Why it matters

Caulfield's inclusion highlights his transition from the AHL affiliate to the major leagues. His promotion represents a key step for the Ducks as they finalize their depth chart for the regular season.

Caulfield recorded 17 goals and 21 assists for 38 total points during the 2025-26 season. He signed a two-year contract valued at $1.75 million with the club this past summer.

The players

Judd Caulfield

He is a professional hockey forward who transitioned to the Anaheim Ducks after collegiate play at the University of North Dakota.

Anaheim Ducks

They are a professional NHL team based in Anaheim that competes in the Pacific Division.

San Diego Gulls

They serve as the American Hockey League affiliate for the Anaheim Ducks.

The details

After competing for the San Diego Gulls, Caulfield successfully transitioned into the Anaheim organization's top-tier lineup. His effort contributes to a broader trend of University of North Dakota alumni succeeding at the professional level, with 11 former players earning spots on NHL rosters.

Caulfield played at the University of North Dakota from 2019 to 2023.
He competed for the San Diego Gulls during the 2025-26 season.
Caulfield signed his $1.75 million contract in the summer of 2026.
NHL rosters were officially finalized on September 29, 2026.
The Ducks begin their regular season in Las Vegas on October 2, 2026.

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Season Trajectory

The success of Judd Caulfield follows the established pattern of the University of North Dakota hockey program's pipeline to the NHL. His inclusion in the lineup provides the Ducks with additional depth as they attempt to bolster their performance relative to division rivals this season.

Caulfield's position among the 16 forwards suggests he will be active for the season-opening game in Las Vegas. His $1.75 million contract provides the team with low-cost depth while he competes for consistent ice time.

The takeaway

Caulfield has effectively moved from the developmental AHL level to a spot on the NHL roster. His path underscores the importance of consistency in minor-league play for securing major-league opportunities.