The Anaheim Ducks have made a shocking move before their 2026-27 season opener against the Vegas Golden Knights on Friday night. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Ducks have signed prospect defenseman Tristan Luneau to a six-year, $43.2 million contract extension. Starting next season, Luneau will have a $7.2 million average annual value.
When noting that Luneau is a young defenseman who has only 14 games of NHL experience, him landing this contract extension is undoubtedly a major surprise. According to Friedman, it is even a historic hockey deal, as this is now the largest contract ever signed by a player who has only played in 14 career NHL games. This is also a major gamble by the Ducks, but it is clear that they believe Luneau will blossom into a high-impact defenseman in the NHL.
However, if he does not break out and become at least a true top-four defenseman, this contract extension could end up aging horribly for Anaheim. In 14 career NHL games for the Ducks over three seasons, Luneau has recorded two goals, four points, and a minus-2 rating. In 135 career AHL games with the San Diego Gulls, the 2022 second-round pick has posted 19 goals, 76 assists, and 95 points.
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