Anaheim Ducks face decision on matching Philadelphia's $90 million offer sheet for Leo Carlsson
The Ducks have seven days to decide whether to match the Flyers' five-year, $90 million offer sheet for restricted free agent Leo Carlsson, with the alternative costing four first-round picks.
Anaheim general manager Pat Verbeek has a week to decide whether to match the Philadelphia Flyers' offer sheet for restricted free agent Leo Carlsson. The Flyers presented a five-year contract worth $90 million, an average annual value of $18 million, which would make Carlsson the highest-paid player on the Ducks roster. If Anaheim declines, it will receive the Flyers' first-round picks for the next four drafts.
Carlsson, a 21-year-old Swedish centre drafted second overall by the Ducks in 2023, recorded 29 goals and 67 points in 70 games last season before a thigh injury limited his playoff appearances. The Ducks had been interested in securing him on a long-term deal before the new collective bargaining agreement reduces contract length limits.
The team currently has about $37 million in cap space, according to public estimates, but matching the offer would leave roughly $19 million for other roster moves, potentially affecting negotiations with other young players such as forward Cutter Gauthier and defenseman Pavel Mintyukov. The Ducks could also consider trading assets or retaining the draft compensation if additional offer sheets arise.
Agent Matt Keator declined to comment on the negotiations, stating that the process will play out. The decision will shape Anaheim's roster strategy as it seeks to build around Carlsson while maintaining financial flexibility.