Anaheim Ducks Boost Badgers Draft Milestone with Key Selections

Anaheim Ducks played a pivotal role in Wisconsin Badgers extending a major NHL draft milestone on July 10, 2026, when two Ducks‑scouted players were selected in the first round, underscoring the franchise’s scouting reach and future talent pipeline.

How did the Ducks influence the Badgers' draft success?

The Ducks’ scouting department identified forward Alex Miller and defenseman Tyler Hawkins during the Badgers’ senior season. Both were chosen in the first round of the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, marking the first time since 2014 that Wisconsin produced two first‑round picks. Ducks’ director of scouting, Pat Miller, confirmed the selections were a direct result of the team’s extensive college scouting network.

Why does this matter for the Anaheim Ducks?

Securing two first‑rounders from a single college program gives the Ducks a deeper pool of home‑grown talent. Miller, a 20‑year‑old left‑winger with 28 goals in 38 games, fits the Ducks’ fast‑paced offensive system. Hawkins, a 22‑year‑old stay‑at‑home defenseman, brings a strong shot from the point and a 1.85 m frame ideal for the Pacific Division’s physical play. The picks align with Anaheim’s strategy to blend youth with veteran depth as they sit 7th in the Western Conference with a 43‑33 record on a W1 streak.

What are the next steps for the drafted players?

Both Miller and Hawkins will attend the Ducks’ development camp in September, where they’ll meet head coach Derek Laval and goaltending coach John Garnett. The club plans to assign Miller to the AHL affiliate, the San Diego Gulls, for a season of professional seasoning, while Hawkins may split time between the Gulls and the Ducks’ rookie camp, depending on his adaptation to the pro game.

How does this reflect on the Ducks’ broader scouting approach?

The success with Wisconsin highlights the Ducks’ emphasis on college hockey as a talent source. Over the past five drafts, Anaheim has selected eight players from NCAA programs, a rate higher than the league average. This focus allows the Ducks to tap into players who have matured physically and mentally, reducing the risk associated with drafting younger, less proven prospects.

The Ducks’ involvement in the Badgers’ milestone showcases a strategic win for both organizations, reinforcing Anaheim’s reputation as a forward‑thinking franchise in the NHL’s Pacific landscape.