Roger McQueen Debuts for Anaheim Ducks With ‘Cars’ Inspired No. 95

Roger McQueen made his NHL debut for the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday, October 13, 2026, marking a highly anticipated arrival that leaned heavily into the branding synergy established during his draft night. The 2025 first-round pick took the ice at the Honda Center wearing jersey No. 95, a deliberate nod to the Disney/Pixar character Lightning McQueen.

The thematic connection was present from the moment McQueen stepped onto the ice for his solo rookie lap. The arena production crew played “Real Gone” by Sheryl Crow—the opening track from the original Cars soundtrack—as he completed his traditional first circuit. This branding narrative dates back to the 2025 NHL Draft, where McQueen was selected 10th overall. On his draft night in Los Angeles, the Ducks arranged for McQueen to take a helicopter to Disneyland in Anaheim specifically to meet the character that shares his name.

McQueen's connection to the film franchise began with a helicopter trip to Disneyland on his draft night.

McQueen’s call-up from the AHL’s San Diego Gulls was necessitated by a series of injuries in the Ducks’ forward corps. The team is currently navigating the absence of veteran Ryan Poehling, who is sidelined with an MCL sprain. McQueen earned the promotion after a strong start in the minor leagues, where he recorded three goals in four games for the Gulls.

In his first taste of NHL action, McQueen logged 11:26 of ice time during the Ducks’ 4-2 loss to the Calgary Flames. Analysis of his performance shows a balanced debut; he recorded one shot on goal, one blocked shot, and demonstrated reliability in the faceoff circle by winning three of his six draws (50%).

While the Ducks were unable to secure a victory against the Flames, McQueen’s transition from the draft floor to the professional roster highlights the organization’s willingness to embrace the “Cars” association as a unique identity for their young center. He remains with the big club as they continue their early-season schedule, providing a presence to a lineup currently managing significant injury gaps.

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