Anaheim Ducks Assign Nikita Klepov to Saginaw Spirit

The Ducks return their top draft pick to junior hockey to preserve his entry-level contract status.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Hockey

Anaheim Ducks Assign Nikita Klepov to Saginaw Spirit

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The Anaheim Ducks have assigned 18-year-old forward Nikita Klepov to the Saginaw Spirit. By returning the 11th overall draft selection to his junior team before the 10-game NHL threshold, the organization prevents the first year of his entry-level contract from starting.

Why it matters

This move protects the Ducks' long-term salary cap flexibility by delaying the start of Klepov's professional contract. It also allows the prospect to continue his development in a league where he dominated competition last season.

Klepov recorded zero points during his four-game stint with the Anaheim Ducks. He previously led the OHL in scoring last season, finishing with 97 points in 67 games.

The players

Nikita Klepov

He is an 18-year-old forward who was selected 11th overall in the NHL Draft by the Anaheim Ducks.

Anaheim Ducks

They are a professional NHL hockey team based in Southern California that competes in the Pacific Division.

Saginaw Spirit

They are a major junior hockey team that competes in the Ontario Hockey League.

The details

As an 18-year-old selection, Klepov is ineligible for the AHL, making the OHL the only alternative for his continued development. The forward was selected 11th overall in the NHL Draft.

2026-10-30
The Anaheim Ducks announced the assignment of Nikita Klepov.
2025-2026: Klepov led the OHL in scoring during this season.

Season Trajectory

This move reflects a standard approach to managing young prospects under the NHL entry-level contract slide rule. It positions the organization to retain maximum team control over the prospect while ensuring he receives consistent ice time during his critical developmental years.

Ducks fans will not see Klepov on the ice for the remainder of this NHL season. Fantasy managers should adjust rosters accordingly, as the forward will not be accruing NHL-level statistics until he returns to the major league roster.

The takeaway

Teams frequently utilize the 10-game threshold to balance immediate lineup needs with long-term financial planning. Prospects sent back to junior leagues often aim to refine their physical play before challenging for a permanent spot in the professional rotation.