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Carlsson's deal complicates Gauthier's contract negotiations with Ducks

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 7:48 PM

Last updated Jul 27, 2026

Carlsson's deal complicates Gauthier's contract negotiations with Ducks

Summary

The recent offer sheet for Leo Carlsson has influenced Cutter Gauthier's contract talks with the Anaheim Ducks, leaving him unsigned amid cap constraints. With just over $9 million in available salary cap, the Ducks face challenges in locking down their young talent, highlighted by Gauthier's impressive 41-goal season. While Carlsson becomes the highest-paid player in NHL history, Gauthier could demand a significant contract himself, potentially exceeding $15 million. General Manager Pat Verbeek will need to consider options for freeing up cap space, possibly through a trade or offloading veteran contracts. Gauthier's future with the Ducks remains uncertain as discussions continue.

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Market Watch

•Ducks have about $9 million in cap space remaining.
•Leo Carlsson signed a record deal, affecting Gauthier's negotiations.
•Gauthier led Ducks in scoring with 69 points last season.
•Anaheim needs to secure its young core, including Gauthier.
•Potential trade options include moving veteran players to free cap space.

Latest Updates

7:48 PMYahoo Sports — Carlsson’s Deal Reshapes Cutter Gauthier’s Contract Negotiations

What they're saying

"
The Leo Carlsson offer sheet has changed how NHL teams will approach their restricted free agents (RFAs). Philadelphia backed Anaheim into a corner. This forced them to make their young center the highest-paid player in NHL history. Now the Ducks face a new problem. Cutter Gauthier remains unsigned. With currently only a little more than […] The post Carlsson’s Deal Reshapes Cutter Gauthier’s Contract Negotiations appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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