Ducks Make First Round of Roster Cuts

By Thomas Harrington

Earlier today, the Anaheim Ducks made their first round of roster cuts, reducing the size of the training camp roster to 56. Forward Sean Tschigerl, Anaheim’s fifth round pick from their most recent draft, was assigned to the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL. The Ducks also cut defenseman Mikael Diotte, forward Logan Nijhoff, and defenseman Miguel Tourigny.

Tschigerl is not signed to an entry-level contract and there was no question that he’d be heading to the WHL this season, the only question was when. Tschigerl did not play in Anaheim’s first preseason game, but he was impressive at the recent rookie tournament. I’m a little surprised that Tschigerl was sent to juniors so quickly after what he did at the rookie tournament, but if he’s not going to get into a preseason game, then it makes sense to send him back to Calgary and get ready for the season. Hopefully he’ll get a longer look at training camp next year.

Diotte, Nijhoff, and Tourigny are all undrafted players who were invited to Anaheim’s camp to give them a taste of what the NHL is like. It’s unsurprising to see them cut and heading back to their junior teams. Diotte is going back to Drummondville of the QMJHL, Nijhoff is going back to Regina of the WHL, and Tourigny is going back to Blainsille-Boisbriand of the QMJHL.

All three played at the rookie tournament, and Nijhoff scored the game-winner in the final seconds of the final game against Arizona. Hopefully their time at the rookie tournament and training camp will help them going forward. If they can improve enough, they may be drafted by an NHL team, sign with one once they are no longer eligible for the draft, or sign with a minor league team in the hopes of making the NHL someday.

Simon Benoit took the latter path, when he signed with San Diego a few years ago after being passed over in the draft. He made his NHL debut last season and figures to be in the mix for one of the final defensive spots on Anaheim’s roster this season.

With 56 players still in camp, the Ducks have a long way to go before the season begins. With back to back games on Wednesday and Thursday, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Ducks use most of the remaining players in those two games, and then make a much larger roster cut on Friday.

Related Articles:

Prospect Update: Josh Mahura

Prospect Update: Henry Thrun

Prospect Update: Brayden Tracey

Prospect Update: Jacob Perreault

Prospect Update: Jamie Drysdale

Prospect Update: Trevor Zegras

Anaheim’s Top 10 Rookies

Listen to our hockey podcast by clicking below or visit us at Podomatic, Rumble, Spreaker, or YouTube.

Support us by becoming a DucksNPucks patron! Members can win game tickets, Ducks gear, and more!

Want to start your sports media career? Then Join The Puck Network!

DucksNPucks is part of The Puck Network, which covers the entire NHL. There are openings to cover your favorite team(s) and earn school credits! If you are interested, then apply by filling out the form here: Join Our Team. What are you waiting for? Start your sports media career TODAY!

September 28th, 2021