Caleb Desnoyers, the 2025 NHL No. 4 draft pick, is starting his pro career with the Tucson Roadrunners. Desnoyers hit the ice for a matchup against the San Diego Gulls on Oct. 17, 2026.
Courtesy of Kate Dibildox, Tucson Roadrunners
The transition also comes with responsibilities away from hockey.
Unlike junior hockey, where players often live with billet families who help with everyday tasks. On the Roadrunners, Desnoyers now has to manage those responsibilities himself.
Teammate and Roadrunners forward Tij Iginla has known Desnoyers since they played together for Team Canada at the U18 Championships in spring 2024 before becoming teammates in Tucson.
“He’s a really good kid and has a good sense of humor,” Iginla said. “He likes to crack some jokes and keep it light.”
Having played alongside Desnoyers at both the international and professional levels, Iginla believes the young center already has skills that could translate to the NHL.
“I think his skating is definitely ready for the NHL, as well as his playmaking,” Iginla said.
Now, his time on the Roadrunners will give him the “pro experience” he needs to take the next step, Iginla said, adding that he already has the work ethic to succeed.
“He just really loves the game and works hard at it,” he said.
Beginning his professional career in Tucson wasn’t originally part of his plan, Desnoyers said.
His goal during the summer was to earn a spot on the Mammoth’s NHL roster.
At first, he was disappointed to be heading to Tucson, but he said he understands that this is an opportunity to improve.
“It’s not the thing that I wanted, but I think it’s also a great opportunity for me to get better and get closer to my dream,” he said.