First-round pick Nikita Klepov is expected to make his NHL debut against the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday night.
Nikita Klepov spent the first two games of the season watching from the press box, waiting for a signal. On Wednesday morning, that signal finally arrived.
The 18-year-old winger skated on the Anaheim Ducks’ third line during the morning session, signaling he will step onto the ice for his NHL debut against the Edmonton Oilers. Puck drop is set for 10 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on Sportsnet West and Sportsnet+.
It is a rapid transition for the American-born, Russian-raised forward. Just months ago, the plan was simple: head to Michigan State to play NCAA hockey. That path vanished the moment the Ducks called his name 15th overall in this year’s draft. Once he signed his entry-level contract, the college dream was traded for the rigors of professional hockey.
Klepov arrives in Anaheim with a heavy reputation from his time with the Saginaw Spirit. Last season. he tore through the OHL as both the top scorer and rookie of the year. racking up 37 goals and 60 assists across 67 games. His arrival on the roster list puts him in elite company; he becomes the fifth first-round selection from this draft class to debut. joining Gavin McKenna. Ivar Stenberg. Alberts Smits. and Viggo Bjorck.
The math for the Ducks is specific: Klepov has a nine-game window before his entry-level contract officially kicks in. The team faces a complex roster decision ahead. as league rules prevent him from playing full-time in the AHL. save for potential short-term conditioning stints. If he doesn’t stick in Anaheim. he could return to the Saginaw Spirit. a team expected to compete at the top of the OHL standings this year.
For now, the focus shifts to the Oilers. After three days of watching his new teammates, Klepov’s wait is over.
Nikita Klepov Anaheim Ducks NHL debut Edmonton Oilers OHL hockey ice hockey draft pick