Three-time cancer survivor to suit up for Ducks in rookie tournament 

It’s been a long time coming for Will Francis .

The Anaheim Ducks prospect and three-time cancer survivor will play in his first NHL rookie tournament this weekend.

In 2020, Francis was first diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He underwent treatment three different times in five years and is currently in remission.

The Ducks drafted the defenseman in the sixth round of the 2019 NHL Draft. He played for the University of Minnesota-Duluth from 2021-2025.

“It’s a surreal experience [training camp],” Francis said. “Ever since 2019, it’s been something that’s been a goal of mine and a dream of mine. It’s just super cool to finally achieve it after everything I’ve been through.

“Looking back at 2019, I probably hoped it would’ve came a little earlier but, in the end, good things