Prospect Update: Lucas Pettersson

By Thomas Harrington

The Anaheim Ducks drafted forward Lucas Pettersson in the second round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, 35th overall. He spent most of the past season playing for Brynas IF in the SHL, while also playing for Team Sweden at the World Juniors. When his season in the SHL ended, Pettersson came to North America and made his AHL debut with the San Diego Gulls at the end of their season. Pettersson played with fellow Anaheim prospect Damian Clara and former Duck Jakob Silfverberg in Brynas.

After recording one assist in 29 SHL games in the 2024-2025 season, Pettersson exploded for 10 goals and 20 points in 41 SHL games this past season. He finished seventh on the team in goals and ninth in points. Pettersson missed some time in January after the World Juniors, as an illness kept him out of the lineup for several games. Brynas made the playoffs but lost to Vaxjo. Pettersson played in all five postseason games and recorded four assists, finishing tied for third in assists and points on the team.

At the World Juniors, Pettersson scored four goals and six points in six games for Sweden, finishing tied for second on the team in goals. He was also one of the team’s alternate captains. His best game came against the United States, where he scored two goals, including the game winner while Sweden was shorthanded. Pettersson missed the semifinal game, but returned to help Sweden defeat Czechia in the gold medal game.

When Brynas’ season ended, Pettersson came and played four games for the Gulls at the end of the season and was scoreless. He did not play in either of San Diego’s playoff games. Pettersson didn’t do much in those four games, but there were a few moments where he showed his offensive skill and defensive responsibility.

I had three expectations for Pettersson last summer, and he met all three of them. First, after only one assist to his credit in the SHL, I wanted Pettersson to put up substantially more points this season. Second, I wanted him to spend as little time in the HockeyAllsvenskan league as possible. It’s a very good league, but the SHL is a clear step above it. Pettersson didn’t play any games in that league, spending the entire season in the SHL. Finally, I wanted Pettersson to play at the World Juniors after being among the final cuts the previous year. Pettersson didn’t just play at the tournament, he walked away with a gold medal.

This coming season, Pettersson should be a full time member of the San Diego Gulls. Fellow prospects like Herman Traff and Roger McQueen are also just starting their AHL careers, while other prospects like Nico Myatovic and Yegor Sidorov already have at least a season or more of AHL time under their belt. Plus, there are the veterans on the team like Matthew Phillips, Ryan Carpenter, and Travis Howe. A consistent spot in the lineup is far from a guarantee for Pettersson.

I have a few expectations for Pettersson this season. First, for him to play in a majority of San Diego’s games. The Gulls should have a fairly deep roster and it will be a great sign of where he’s at if he is playing in San Diego on a nightly basis. Second, for him to avoid the ECHL entirely. Finally, for him to get some time on both of the Gulls’ special teams units.

If Pettersson can step in and have a great first season in the AHL, there’s a chance we could see him called up to the NHL as early as this season. What’s more likely is he spends the next couple of years getting used to North American hockey and improving his overall game. If he can do that, his NHL debut will likely come in the 2028-2029 season.

Pettersson signed his entry-level contract last summer, and it’s set to begin this coming season. He’ll be a restricted free agent in three years when it ends. As long as he’s become a solid AHL contributor, he’ll be re-signed on a two-way deal. If he’s made it to the NHL, then Pettersson could be in line for a one-way deal. If his game doesn’t translate well to North America, the Ducks could choose to not qualify him and let him leave as a free agent.

The next prospect update will be on forward Brady Turko.

Related Articles:

Prospect Update: Darels Ujlanskis

Prospect Update: Eric Nilson

Prospect Profile: Cruz Lucius

Prospect Update: Alexis Mathieu

Prospect Update: Ethan Procyszyn

Listen to our hockey podcast by clicking below or visiting us at Apple Podcasts, Rumble, Spreaker, or YouTube.

Support us by becoming a DucksNPucks patron! Members can win game tickets, Ducks gear, and more!

Want to start your sports media career? Then Join The Puck Network!

DucksNPucks is part of The Puck Network, which covers the entire NHL. There are openings to cover your favorite team(s) and earn school credits! If you are interested, then apply by filling out the form here: Join Our Team. What are you waiting for? Start your sports media career TODAY!

September 5th, 2026