Nikita Klepov set for NHL debut as Ducks face Oilers

Nikita Klepov appears ready to step into the Anaheim Ducks lineup for the first time. After watching the opening two games from the press box, the club’s 2026 first-round pick is expected to make his NHL debut Wednesday night against the Edmonton Oilers.

At the morning skate, Klepov skated on the Ducks’ third line, a strong indication he will dress against Edmonton. Selected 15th overall in this year’s draft, the American-born, Russian-raised winger is viewed as a significant piece of Anaheim’s long-term offensive core.

From Saginaw star to Ducks opportunity

Klepov arrives in Anaheim after a dominant season with the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League. He finished last year as the OHL’s leading scorer and was named rookie of the year, recording 37 goals and 60 assists in 67 games. That breakout campaign cemented his status as one of the most dynamic young forwards outside the NHL.

Prior to being drafted, Klepov had planned to play NCAA hockey at Michigan State this season. Those plans changed once the Ducks called his name in the first round, with the winger opting to sign his entry-level contract and immediately join the organization’s pro ranks.

Nine-game window and development options

Under NHL rules, Klepov can appear in up to nine games before the first year of his entry-level deal officially kicks in. This early-season stretch will serve as a trial period for Anaheim to gauge whether he is ready to stay in the NHL or would benefit from more time at the junior level.

Klepov is not eligible to be assigned to the AHL on a full-time basis at this stage, though the Ducks could send him there temporarily on a conditioning stint. The other major option is returning him to Saginaw, where the Spirit are expected to contend near the top of the OHL again this season.

Part of a fast-moving 2026 draft class

If Klepov does play against Edmonton, he will become the fifth player from the 2026 first round to reach the NHL already. Top pick Gavin McKenna has debuted with the Toronto Maple Leafs, while Ivar Stenberg (San Jose Sharks), Alberts Smits (New York Rangers) and Viggo Bjorck (Winnipeg Jets) have also played their first games.

For the Ducks, inserting Klepov into the lineup against a high-powered Oilers team will provide an early test of how his junior scoring touch translates to the NHL. What they see over the next few outings will help determine whether this debut marks the start of his full-time NHL career or a brief look before another year of development in junior.