# Ducks lock in Gauthier after Carlsson's record deal

> Anaheim doubles down on young stars with a massive six-year extension for forward Cutter Gauthier.
- Title: Ducks lock in Gauthier after Carlsson's record deal · Newsweek
- Summary: Anaheim doubles down on young stars with a massive six-year extension for forward Cutter Gauthier. The Ducks are committing long-term money to their young…
- Keywords: anaheim ducks, cutter gauthier, leo carlsson, nhl contracts, restricted free agent, contract extension, philadelphia flyers, chris kreider, montreal canadiens, salary cap, Ducks, lock
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/sports/ducks-cutter-gauthier-signs-massive-extension-after-leo-carlssons-record-deal-12448988
- Author: Michael DeRosa
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: anaheim ducks, cutter gauthier, leo carlsson, nhl contracts, restricted free agent, contract extension, philadelphia flyers, chris kreider, montreal canadiens, salary cap
## Ducks match Carlsson's record offer
Anaheim matched Philadelphia's five-year, $90 million offer sheet for Leo Carlsson earlier this offseason, keeping the young star in orange.
## Gauthier signs six-year, $81M deal
The 22-year-old forward agreed to a six-year contract worth $81 million, averaging $13.5 million per year starting this season.
## Cap space finally freed up
Gauthier was a restricted free agent for over two months while Anaheim lacked cap space. The deal came together after Chris Kreider mutually terminated his contract last week.
## Breakout year sets the stage
The 2022 fifth-overall pick just posted career highs with 41 goals, 28 assists, and 69 points in 76 games during the 2025-26 season.
## Room to grow at just 22
With Gauthier still young and showing clear potential, the Ducks are betting he'll continue improving throughout his new contract.
## Key takeaway

The Ducks are committing long-term money to their young core, betting on Gauthier's breakout potential to continue.