Cutter Gauthier (Credit: Getty Images) The Anaheim Ducks could be forced to make a significant roster move as they attempt to re-sign forward Cutter Gauthier to a new contract. That’s all on the heels of Anaheim matching a big offer-sheet deal for Leo Carlsson, which put extra strain on the team’s salary-cap structure.Gauthier is entering a critical phase of his development after putting up 41 goals and 69 points last season. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has suggested Anaheim could be making some roster moves to free up cap space with another big contract potentially on the way.
Will Cutter Gauthier pressure Anaheim Ducks into trades?
Cutter Gauthier’s next deal could have the Anaheim Ducks creating some more salary-cap space before the start of the 2026-27 NHL season.Friedman recently said talks had moved forward but described the anticipated contract as a “big number.” The insider also said Anaheim would have to make drastic moves on the roster to fit the deal.The Ducks’ financial situation became more complex when Philadelphia Flyers forward Leo Carlsson received a lucrative offer sheet that Anaheim ultimately matched.The five-year deal is reportedly worth an average annual value and cap hit of $18 million, which would make a substantial dent in Anaheim’s future payroll structure.So Gauthier’s contract becomes more than an extension for one man. The deal also could dictate how the Ducks handle several other roster commitments as they try to remain competitive.Gauthier is coming off a breakout campaign that bolstered his standing as one of Anaheim’s key young forwards heading into negotiations.Last season, the 22-year-old posted 41 goals and 69 points, outscoring Carlsson in both categories. That output gives Gauthier a strong case for a sizable long-term deal.So the Ducks have to find a way to reward a productive young player, but still have enough financial flexibility to build a complete roster.
Which Anaheim Ducks players could become trade candidates?
If Anaheim needs salary relief right now, veteran contracts could become viable tools. Chris Kreider and Alex Killorn are entering the final years of their contracts, while Mikael Granlund has one more year left.No player has been mentioned as a trade target or confirmed as a player on the trade block. But veteran contracts that expire or have shorter terms could give Anaheim more wiggle room if brass views a trade as a possibility.The immediate concern is creating enough cap space without damaging a roster that is expected to rely heavily on its young core.A trade of a veteran could provide some financial relief to the team, but it also takes experience out of the lineup. It would be up to the Ducks to determine if that flexibility in the short term is worth more than the value in keeping established players.Anaheim has invested heavily in its young forwards, so Gauthier’s development makes the situation especially important. The challenge will be to secure his future while making room for other key contracts, which could become one of the franchise’s biggest roster-management challenges.