On December 12, 2011, Pelley, along with Mark Fraser and a 2012 7th round draft pick, was traded to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Kurtis Foster and Timo Pielmeier.

New Jersey Devils GM, Lou Lamoriello spoke about the trade: "When you have such quality individuals (like Pelley and Fraser) who've given you so much each and every day in practice and in the locker room as support, you try and do the best for them.

"[1] A free agent with the 2012 NHL lock-out in place, Pelley signed midway into the 2012–13 season to a professional try-out contract with the Ducks' affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals of the AHL on November 23, 2012.

As a free agent, Pelly opted to continue in the AHL signing a one-year deal with the Stockton Heat and agreeing to an invite to participate with NHL affiliate, the Calgary Flames training camp.

[3] After a solitary season with the Heat, Pelley left North America as a free agent, securing a one-year contract with Danish club, SønderjyskE Ishockey of the Metal Ligaen on July 24, 2018.