The Anaheim Ducks still have significant work to do before the 2026-27 season begins.
According to NHL agent Paul Shaheen, the Ducks offered restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier a four-year contract carrying a $13 million average annual value. The reported $52 million proposal was rejected by Gauthier and his agent, Kurt Overhardt.
While the exact reason for the rejection remains unclear, Gauthier’s camp could be looking for more security, a higher salary or both. The 22-year-old is coming off a breakout season in which he led Anaheim with 41 goals and 69 points, giving him considerable leverage in negotiations. He has quickly become one of the most important pieces of the Ducks’ young core.
Ducks Face a Salary-Cap Squeeze
Anaheim currently has approximately $9.07 million in projected cap space, meaning it cannot fit a $13 million contract without making another move. The Ducks’ financial situation changed dramatically after they matched the Philadelphia Flyers’ five-year, $90 million offer sheet for Leo Carlsson.
General manager Pat Verbeek will now have to create at least $4 million in additional room—and preferably more—to sign Gauthier while maintaining flexibility throughout the season.
Alex Killorn and Chris Kreider are the most logical trade candidates. Both are entering the final year of their contracts, with Kreider carrying a $6.5 million cap hit and Killorn accounting for $6.25 million. Moving either veteran without retaining salary would create enough space to complete a Gauthier extension.
Frank Vatrano could also be considered. His contract carries a cap hit of approximately $4.57 million for another two seasons. However, moving a younger player with greater long-term value simply to keep an older veteran would be questionable roster management.
Anaheim Must Prioritize Its Young Star
The Ducks may need to attach a draft pick to move Killorn or Kreider because of their age, salary and trade protection. That would be an unfortunate cost, but signing Gauthier must take priority.
A longer contract—perhaps six to eight years—could provide Gauthier with the security he wants while allowing Anaheim to structure the deal around future cap increases. Kreider and Killorn’s contracts expire next summer, when the Ducks are also projected to receive considerably more cap flexibility.
Anaheim has built its future around Carlsson and Gauthier. Now, Verbeek must clear the necessary salary and ensure both remain at the centre of the Ducks’ rebuild.
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