A New Chapter for Caulfield
Judd Caulfield, a former Grand Forks Central standout and University of North Dakota forward, has agreed to a two-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks, the team announced this week.
The agreement includes an NHL salary of $850,000 for the 2026-27 season and $900,000 for 2027-28, while his AHL compensation with the San Diego Gulls will be $175,000 in 2026-27 and $250,000 in 2027-28.
During the 2025-26 campaign Caulfield posted a career-high 17 goals and 38 points in 71 games for the Gulls, helping the club reach the playoffs before a first-round exit at the hands of the Colorado Eagles.
Caulfield’s collegiate career at UND culminated in a Penrose Cup championship and a total of 29 goals and 62 points over 133 games, after which his NHL rights were transferred from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Ducks.
Life on the West Coast
Beyond the numbers, Caulfield has spoken about the appeal of San Diego’s climate and beaches, noting that the environment aids his mental reset as he transitions to the professional ranks.
The move also marks a homecoming in a sense, as the forward previously navigated two seasons in the U.S. National Team Development Program and built a foundation in Grand Forks before heading east to North Dakota.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching how the forward adapts to the Ducks’ roster and whether the promised salary progression translates into on-ice impact for the California-based franchise.