Anaheim Ducks Re-Sign Jackson LaCombe & Nikita Nesterenko

The Anaheim Ducks are keeping one of their young defensemen around, as they have signed Jackson LaCombe to a two-year, $1.85 million contract ($925,000 AAV). They also have signed forward Nikita Nesterenko to a one-year, two-way contract.

LaCombe, 23, just completed his first full season with the Ducks during the 2023-24 campaign. Overall, the Eden Praire, Minnesota native had a decent first season and showed signs that he has the potential to become a solid offensive defenseman. In 71 games, the 2019 second-round pick posted two goals to go along with 17 points, 50 hits, and 129 blocks.

LaCombe will now look to take another step forward in his development next season and improve his all-around game.

As for Nesterenko, the 22-year-old forward has made appearances at the NHL level in each of the last two seasons. In three games with the Ducks last season, the 6-foot-2 forward posted one goal, seven hits, and an even plus/minus rating.

Nesterenko also performed well down in the AHL with the San Diego Gulls last season, recording 16 goals and 37 points in 70 games played.