Anaheim Ducks Acquire Forward Jeffrey Viel from Boston Bruins in Trade

The Anaheim Ducks have added veteran forward Jeffrey Viel in a trade with the Boston Bruins, sending a 2026 fourth-round draft pick to Boston in exchange. The Bruins will receive the better of Detroit’s or Philadelphia’s fourth-round selection in the upcoming draft, sources confirmed Friday.

Viel, 28, has appeared in 10 games this season for Boston but is yet to record a point, accumulating 30 penalty minutes. He has not scored in the NHL since the 2021-22 season when he played with the San Jose Sharks. Known for his physical style, Viel has primarily spent his career in the American Hockey League, registering five points and 183 penalty minutes across 64 NHL games with Boston and San Jose. Last season, Viel tallied 40 points for the Winnipeg Jets’ AHL affiliate, demonstrating offensive production at the minor league level.

The trade adds depth and toughness to the Ducks’ forward group, complementing veteran Ross Johnston. Johnston, 31, has led Anaheim with 82 penalty minutes this season while setting a personal best with 12 points in 44 games. Viel’s presence is expected to provide additional grit and energy on the fourth line, giving head coach Greg Cronin more flexibility in matchups against physically demanding opponents.

This move signals Anaheim’s commitment to strengthening its roster with players who bring size, toughness, and experience at both the NHL and AHL levels. Viel’s arrival may also influence ice time distribution and fourth-line roles, with Johnston and other depth forwards potentially seeing adjusted responsibilities.

The Ducks next face a four-game homestand beginning Saturday, and Viel could make his debut as early as Sunday against the Calgary Flames. The trade marks the first acquisition for Anaheim this season aimed at bolstering physicality and depth in preparation for the playoff push.