The Anaheim Ducks announced this week that they have inked 18‑year‑old forward Nikita Klepov to a three‑year entry‑level contract, a move that locks the promising scorer into the organization through the next three seasons.
A Record‑Setting Rookie Campaign
Klepov’s rookie year in the Ontario Hockey League was nothing short of historic. He topped the league in scoring with 97 points, combining 37 goals and 60 assists while posting a plus‑9 rating in 67 games. The performance earned him the OHL’s Rookie of the Year award and a spot on the First All‑Star Team.
The statistical surge placed him among an elite group, becoming only the third player in league history to capture both rookie honors and the points title in the same season. His 97 points also set a new franchise record for a rookie, surpassing previous benchmarks.
Prior to his OHL breakout, Klepov honed his game in the USHL with the Sioux City Musketeers, where he recorded 31 points and three game‑winning goals across 59 contests. Internationally, he helped Team USA claim gold at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, scoring the decisive championship goal.
Looking Ahead
Ducks general manager Patrik Bexell praised the signing, noting that Klepov’s blend of size, skill and work ethic aligns perfectly with the club’s long‑term vision. The contract also reflects the team’s commitment to developing talent from both the Canadian and American developmental pipelines.
With the new deal in place, Anaheim expects Klepov to contribute immediately at the NHL level, potentially making his debut in the upcoming training camp. Analysts project that his offensive upside could translate into a top‑six forward role within two seasons, depending on development and roster needs.