The Anaheim Ducks might call Orange County home, but their latest draft pick is making waves across all of Southern California, and he did it with a little help from Disney magic.
Right after Roger McQueen heard his name called as the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, he didn’t just throw on his new jersey; he threw himself straight into Disneyland.
The Ducks turn NHL Draft moment into a Disneyland meme
The Ducks, always ready to lean into their Disney-born roots, flew McQueen straight to Disneyland via helicopter. And the jersey number they handed him? 95, the same number worn by Lightning McQueen, the star of Pixar’s Cars franchise.
This wasn’t just a rookie welcome, it was a masterclass in brand synergy. And for fans in Los Angeles who’ve grown up with Pixar, Disney, and a soft spot for underdog sports stories, this one hits all the right notes.
Why this Draft moment went viral
The Ducks’ move is about more than just social media buzz, though it certainly delivered that. It’s about storytelling. From The Mighty Ducks to Lightning McQueen, the franchise has always blurred the line between fiction and reality.
By turning Roger McQueen’s arrival into a live-action Disney moment, they’re embracing their heritage and reminding fans from Anaheim to L.A. that hockey can be just as magical as any animated feature.
McQueen, the player, brings speed, flair, and a flair for the dramatic, much like his namesake on four wheels. Whether he lives up to the hype on the ice remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: he’s already scored in the narrative department.
A SoCal hockey story fit for Hollywood
It’s rare for an NHL draft pick to capture attention this fast. It was all about creating a memory, a connection, and a little spark of joy in a region where hockey fights for space against basketball, baseball, and blockbusters.
Disneyland might technically sit in Anaheim, but the moment wasn’t just local. It was Southern California through and through, from the palm trees to Pixar.
So if you’re in L.A. and wondering whether to give the Ducks a little more attention this season? This might be your sign. Because in a city that runs on stardom and storytelling, Roger McQueen just delivered the most cinematic debut of the draft. And somewhere in the background, you can almost hear it…“KACHOW”.