The Anaheim Ducks' player-development system extends beyond the NHL roster, with prospects developing throughout the AHL and ECHL before earning opportunities in Anaheim.
- Sign up for FloHockey to watch elite junior, college and professional hockey all year long
- FloHockey's 2026 NHL Draft Coverage
- FloHockey To Stream 2027 IIHF Men's World Championship In United States
Understanding where the Ducks' affiliates play can help fans follow the organization's top prospects and future contributors throughout the season.
Anaheim Ducks NHL Affiliate Map
The Ducks are the NHL club at the top of the development pipeline. Prospects selected in the NHL Draft, signed as free agents or acquired through trades often begin their professional careers elsewhere in the organization before working their way to Anaheim.
NHL: Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks compete in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference and play their home games at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
AHL: San Diego Gulls
The Ducks' primary affiliate is the San Diego Gulls of the AHL.
Located less than 100 miles south of Anaheim, the Gulls serve as the final developmental stop for many prospects before they reach the NHL. The close proximity allows Anaheim to move players between the AHL and NHL rosters when injuries occur or opportunities arise.
Many of the Ducks' top prospects spend significant time in San Diego as they adjust to the professional game and prepare for NHL roles.
The Gulls compete in the Pacific Division of the AHL's Western Conference and play their home games at Pechanga Arena San Diego.
ECHL: Tusla Oilers
The Ducks' ECHL affiliate is the Tulsa Oilers.
The ECHL provides another level of professional development within the organization. Players can gain valuable ice time, recover from injuries or continue refining their game while competing against professional talent.
Goaltenders and younger prospects frequently benefit from ECHL assignments as they work toward larger roles within the Ducks organization.
The Oilers compete in the Mountain Division of the ECHL's Western Conference and play their home games at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Okla.
Why Ducks Fans Should Follow The Affiliates
Following Anaheim's affiliates gives fans a closer look at the future of the franchise.
Many players who eventually become NHL regulars spend time developing in both the AHL and ECHL. Strong performances in San Diego or Tulsa can lead to promotions within the organization and, ultimately, opportunities with the Ducks.
Tracking prospects throughout the season also provides additional context when roster moves occur, helping fans understand which players may be next in line for NHL opportunities.
How The Ducks Development Pipeline Works
Most prospects enter the organization through the NHL Draft or free agency and begin their professional careers in either the AHL or ECHL.
As players gain experience and prove they can compete at higher levels, they may earn promotions within the system. A prospect could move from Tulsa to San Diego and eventually to Anaheim, climbing the organizational ladder one step at a time.
For Ducks fans, keeping an eye on the Gulls and Oilers offers a glimpse into the organization's future and the players who could make an impact in Anaheim in the years ahead.
Watch the AHL, ECHL, QMJHL, OHL, USHL And More On FloHockey
FloHockey is the streaming home to some of the best hockey leagues in North America, including the ECHL and more. Check out the broadcast schedule to watch more hockey
Join The Conversation On Social
- Follow us on X @FloHockey
- Follow us on Instagram @flohockey
- Follow us on TikTok @flohockeytv
- Watch us on YouTube
- Like us on Facebook