Prospect Update: Nathan Gaucher

By Thomas Harrington

Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the first round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, forward Nathan Gaucher played for the San Diego Gulls this past season.

This was Gaucher’s second professional season, but it didn’t go as well as his rookie year did. After scoring 10 goals and 25 points in 72 games, his totals fell to eight goals and 19 points in 56 games. After playing in every game for the Gulls in his rookie year, Gaucher had a season-ending injury in mid-March. For the second year in a row, he was primarily used as San Diego’s third line center. He finished 13th in goals and tied for 12th in points on the team.

I had two expectations for Gaucher last year, but he missed both of them. First, I wanted to see him eclipse the 30 point mark. Instead of increasing his point totals by at least six, they fell by six. Second, I wanted him to be used in a top six role more often. Instead he was used on the bottom six all season and even saw some time centering the fourth line.

Gaucher will be back with the Gulls for his third professional season. Last summer, I thought he’d have a chance at making the NHL this coming season, but given his slow start to the year and then a major injury, I think he’ll spend this entire season in the AHL, especially after the Ducks bolstered their center depth this summer.

I have two expectations for Gaucher this coming season. First, for him to have a healthier year and play in over 60 games. When Gaucher’s injury was announced, his timeline for recovery was four to six months, so he should be ready to go by the start of the season. Second, for him to have a bounce back year offensively and have at least as many points as he did as a rookie. Gaucher won’t ever be an offensive juggernaut, but if he wants to become more than a fourth line center in the NHL, he’s going to need to improve his offensive output.

If Gaucher had a stronger season, I think he would have a chance at making his NHL debut this coming season. But with how difficult last season was for him, I think he’ll remain with the Gulls for all of next year, and have a chance at the NHL in the 2026-2027 season. Given his style of game, there’s a chance we could see him with Anaheim this year, but I think other prospects like Tim Washe are more likely to get the call.

Gaucher has two years left on his entry-level deal. As long as he can stay healthy and play solid hockey for the Gulls, he should be re-signed in two years. If he’s made his NHL debut and played a significant number of games for the Ducks, he can probably expect a short, one-way contract. However, if he’s still primarily playing for San Diego, Gaucher will probably be signed to a two-way deal.

The next prospect update will be on defenseman Stian Solberg.

Related Articles:

Prospect Update: Darels Uljanskis

Prospect Update: Ethan Procyszyn

Prospect Update: Damian Clara

Prospect Update: Sasha Pastujov

Prospect Update: Tristan Luneau

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September 14th, 2025