Ducks Lock Down Versatile Defenseman
The Anaheim Ducks announced this week that they have inked Travis Mitchell to a one-year, two-way contract that will run through the 2026-27 NHL season. The agreement, which was first reported by the team’s official channels, gives the club flexibility to toggle the player between the NHL roster and its AHL affiliate, while also preserving his development trajectory.
Mitchell’s journey to the professional ranks began in the 2025-26 campaign when he made his NHL debut with the New York Islanders, recording his first career goal in just nine appearances. Though the sample size was limited, the moment marked a significant milestone for a player who had spent the bulk of his previous seasons grinding in the American Hockey League.
During the 2025-26 AHL schedule, Mitchell logged a career-high 17 points — one goal and 16 assists — while posting a plus-three rating and 87 penalty minutes across 72 games for Bridgeport. His performance earned him a spot in the Calder Cup Playoffs, where he appeared in two postseason games, further exposing him to high-pressure situations.
The defenseman’s collegiate résumé adds another layer of intrigue. Over four seasons at Cornell University from 2019-23, Mitchell amassed 47 points on 11 goals and 36 assists in 95 games, culminating in a senior year in which he captained the Big Red and posted a personal best of 19 points (6-13). His blend of offensive upside and defensive responsibility made him a standout both on and off the ice.
For the Ducks, the signing represents more than just a roster move; it signals a commitment to nurturing talent that can contribute immediately while still harboring growth potential. General manager Jeff Gordon hinted that Mitchell could compete for a bottom-pairing spot in training camp, but emphasized that the player’s experience in the AHL and his leadership qualities will be invaluable regardless of the final roster decisions.