The Hockey News’ Derek Lee reports from the Ducks’ practice on Apr. 16.

IRVINE, Calif. - Dozens of Ducks fans flocked—pun intended—to Great Park Ice on Tuesday morning to get their first glimpse of Cutter Gauthier, who signed his entry-level contract with the Ducks on Sunday.

The 20-year-old just finished up his two-year collegiate career at Boston College, with his final game on Saturday being a heartbreaking loss to Denver in the NCAA Tournament Final.

He is expected to make his NHL debut in the Ducks’ final game on the season in Las Vegas on Thursday.

“It feels great (to be here),” said Gauthier after his first practice as a Duck. “It’s something I’ve dreamt of as a kid, playing in the National Hockey League, and it’s finally here. Couldn’t be more thrilled.”

Gauthier is being thrown straight into the fire as he skated on the top line with Leo Carlsson and Alex Killorn.

“Killorn, he’s a great guy with a lot of experience,” Gauthier said. “He’s won two Stanley Cups, so it’s pretty cool to learn from him. To play with Leo, who’s my age, it’s pretty special.”

It wasn’t the desired result or ending to Gauthier’s collegiate career, but he’s proud of what he was able to accomplish at that level and felt that he improved a lot in his sophomore season.

“I think I’m more of a complete, 200-foot player (now),” he said. “Being extremely trusted by the coach. He looks down in any situation whether we’re (on the penalty kill or power play), need a goal or don’t. I just wanted to be that guy that coach trusted the most and I think I attained that this past year.”

Today’s practice lines: