San Diego Gulls

Frequently Asked Questions

What team are the San Diego Gulls affiliated with?

The San Diego Gulls are the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks, a team in the National Hockey League (NHL). As the primary development team for the Ducks, the San Diego Gulls play a crucial role in training and preparing young prospects and future NHL stars. Players frequently move between the Gulls and the Ducks, allowing them to gain experience and develop their skills in a competitive environment. The affiliation between the San Diego Gulls and the Anaheim Ducks helps ensure a consistent playing style and philosophy, making for a seamless transition for players advancing to the NHL. Fans of the Gulls can enjoy watching top-tier hockey talent in action, knowing that many players on the ice could soon be making an impact at the highest level with the Anaheim Ducks.

What NHL team no longer exists?

One prominent NHL team that no longer exists is the Quebec Nordiques. The Quebec Nordiques joined the NHL in 1979 after the NHL-WHA merger and became known for their passionate fanbase and competitive play. However, due to financial difficulties and challenges related to the small market size, the franchise was relocated to Denver, Colorado, in 1995, where they became the Colorado Avalanche. The Nordiques' departure marked the end of NHL hockey in Quebec City, though the legacy of the team lives on among hockey fans. Other notable defunct NHL teams include the original Winnipeg Jets (who became the Phoenix Coyotes, now Arizona Coyotes) and the Hartford Whalers (relocated to become the Carolina Hurricanes).

Who are the San Diego Gulls associated with?

The San Diego Gulls are closely associated with the Anaheim Ducks, their NHL parent club. This strong affiliation shapes the Gulls' roster, coaching staff, and overall hockey operations, as the Ducks' management oversees the development of players within the Gulls organization. Many of the players skating for the San Diego Gulls are prospects or draft picks of the Anaheim Ducks, working to hone their skills before making the jump to the NHL. Additionally, the Gulls share branding similarities and occasionally participate in joint events or promotional activities with the Ducks. The partnership also benefits fans, who can follow the journey of future Ducks stars from their AHL beginnings with the San Diego Gulls to their eventual NHL debuts.

Who is the new NHL team in 2025?

The new NHL team set to begin play in 2025 is the Utah Hockey Club, often referred to as Utah HC or simply Utah. This expansion team is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and will become the league's 33rd franchise. The addition of the Utah Hockey Club is part of the NHL's broader strategy to expand its footprint in the western United States and tap into new markets with passionate sports fans. The Utah team is expected to bring a fresh energy and new rivalries to the league, with home games at the Delta Center, which is being renovated to accommodate NHL hockey. This expansion follows the recent successful addition of the Seattle Kraken, highlighting the NHL's commitment to growth and innovation.

How much do San Diego Gulls players make?

San Diego Gulls players' salaries vary depending on their contract status, experience, and whether they are on NHL two-way contracts. In the AHL, most players earn between $50,000 and $90,000 per season, though prospects on two-way contracts with the Anaheim Ducks can make considerably more when called up to the NHL, where the league minimum salary is over $775,000 as of the 2023-24 season. Entry-level players or those on standard AHL contracts typically earn less than their NHL counterparts, but the league provides opportunities for bonuses and advancement. Being part of the Gulls organization also gives players access to top-notch training facilities and coaching, helping them develop their skills and potentially secure higher-paying NHL contracts in the future.