What Happened
The Anaheim Ducks signed defenceman Tristan Luneau to a six-year, $43.2 million contract, according to Sportsnet. Luneau, 22, is a right-shot blueliner drafted in the second round. He missed the 2024 world juniors due to a viral infection. In two AHL seasons, he scored nearly a point per game two years ago and recorded 41 points in 70 games last season. The extension carries an average annual value above $7 million.
Key Details
- Contract: six years, $43.2 million, over $7 million per season.
- Luneau is a 22-year-old right-shot defenceman.
- Drafted in the second round.
- Missed 2024 world juniors due to a viral infection.
- AHL: nearly a point per game two years ago; 41 points in 70 games last season.
What It Means
The deal represents a significant bet on Luneau's development, as his impressive AHL numbers have not yet translated to the NHL. Sportsnet notes that minor league success does not guarantee future NHL production, pointing to similar cases. The contract could become a bargain if Luneau becomes a top-pairing defenceman, but it also carries risk given his limited NHL track record.