Nikita Nesterenko, a former prominent forward for the hockey team of Boston College, has recently finalized a two-way contract with the Anaheim Ducks, which will extend until the 2024-25 NHL season.
Originally hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Nesterenko displayed his skills during his three-year tenure with the Eagles from 2020 to 2023. His impressive statistics include 50 points from 20 goals and 30 assists, with a shot accuracy of .138. In addition, he accrued 32 penalty minutes and secured two game-winning goals. Remarkably, his exceptional performance led to his recognition as part of the Hockey East All-Rookie Team, as well as the title of Rookie of the Year.
During the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Nesterenko was selected as the No. 172 overall pick by the Minnesota Wild. However, Anaheim acquired the talented player while he was still a member of the Boston College team.
Since entering the professional arena, the 22-year-old has divided his time between the Ducks and the San Diego Gulls, a farm team closely linked to Anaheim. Nesterenko has participated in 12 games for the Ducks, contributing two goals and maintaining an average ice time of 12 minutes and 51 seconds. His contributions with the Gulls in the 2023-24 season were equally impressive, resulting in 37 points from 16 goals and 21 assists.
Respected NHL writer for The Athletic, Eric Stephens, revealed that the contract secured by Nesterenko is valued at $874,125 for the NHL and $70,000 for the AHL, further underscoring the Ducks’ confidence in his potential.
Notably, Nesterenko was not the only player to secure a two-way contract with the Anaheim Ducks. He was joined by former Minnesota defenseman, Jackson LaCombe, who also secured a two-year deal that extends until the 2025-26 season.