The Anaheim Ducks have secured Jansen Harkins with a new two-year contract, which carries an average annual value of $775,000 for the 2024-25 season and $800,000 for the 2025-26 season. This agreement, first reported by Eric Stephens of The Athletic, solidifies Harkins’ position within the Ducks’ roster going forward.
Harkins, originally claimed off waivers, spent the recent 2023-24 season navigating between the Pittsburgh Penguins and their AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. During his time with Pittsburgh, the 27-year-old forward contributed four assists across 45 NHL games. His stint in the AHL was marked by a more substantial offensive presence, including five goals and seven assists over just 14 appearances.
Despite a setback due to a hand injury sustained during a fight with Beck Malenstyn of the Washington Capitals, Harkins’ performance in both leagues underscores his versatility and resilience as a player.
Before joining the Penguins, Harkins spent six formative seasons with the Winnipeg Jets organization, which drafted him 47th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft. His NHL debut occurred during the 2019-20 season, and he has since accumulated a total of 13 goals and 31 points in 199 career games split between the Penguins and Jets. Harkins has also made brief playoff appearances, scoring a solitary goal across four games.
Harkins’ roots in hockey trace back to his tenure with the Prince George Cougars in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Notably, in 2015, he achieved a standout season with 20 goals and 59 assists in 70 games, culminating in selection for the CHL Top Prospects Game. Throughout his junior career, Harkins amassed an impressive total of 242 points, demonstrating consistent scoring ability and earning recognition as a solid junior player.
Adding a personal dimension to his career, Harkins is the son of Todd Harkins, a former NHL forward who played for the Calgary Flames and Hartford Whalers in the early 1990s. His father’s own professional hockey experience has undoubtedly influenced Jansen’s journey and commitment to the sport.
In signing Harkins to a one-way contract, the Anaheim Ducks recognize his potential to contribute effectively to their lineup. With his combination of NHL experience, AHL success, and junior hockey achievements, Harkins brings a well-rounded skill set and a determined work ethic to the team.
Looking ahead, the Ducks’ investment in Harkins reflects their strategic approach to building a competitive roster, aiming to leverage his talents in pursuit of future successes in the NHL.
