Anaheim Ducks Lock Up Leo Carlsson in Record $90M Deal

Anaheim Ducks secured center Leo Carlsson with a five‑year, $90 million contract on July 5, 2026, making him the NHL’s highest‑paid player at $18 million AAV. The deal capped a tense offer‑sheet saga and forced owners Henry and Susan Samueli to defend GM Pat Verbeek in a statement that quickly drew criticism.

Why did the Ducks match the Flyers’ offer?

The Ducks matched Philadelphia’s offer because the Samuelis believed Verbeek had left enough cap space to retain Carlsson. In reality, negotiations stalled for months, and Carlsson only signed the sheet after the Ducks failed to reach a long‑term deal. Analysts argue the “easy decision” line ignored the fact that the cap‑space was a product of previous contracts, not a free‑hand surplus.

How did the owners’ wording ignite controversy?

The owners’ phrase “intelligently left enough cap space” became a flashpoint. Habs Chronicle slammed the wording, saying intelligent people don’t bully star players into offer sheets. Anthony Di Marco called the claim disingenuous, noting Verbeek’s rigid approach made the next two years tougher for Anaheim. Kyle Garcia added that an “easy decision” should never have required an offer sheet at all.

What does Carlsson’s contract mean for the Ducks’ roster?

Carlsson’s $18 million AAV now sets the market for young talent. Restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier, who tallied 41 goals last season, enters negotiations with heightened leverage. To stay under the $104 million salary cap, Anaheim may need to move depth players, a scenario that could reshape the second and third lines.

Where do the Ducks stand after the signing?

As of July 10, 2026 the Ducks sit 7th in the Western Conference with a 43‑33 record and are on a one‑game winning streak. The Carlsson deal adds a marquee name but also forces the front office to juggle cap flexibility while keeping the team competitive in a tight Pacific division.

What’s next for Pat Verbeek and the Ducks?

Verbeek must now navigate a roster that includes an $18 million centerpiece and a hungry Gauthier. The next steps will involve contract extensions for other core players and possible trades to free up space. The owners’ public defense may have bought Verbeek time, but the real test will be how the Ducks balance star power with depth as the season approaches.