Overview
- Multiple outlets, citing NHL Network reporting, said Tuesday that restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier turned down a four‑year, $52 million ($13 million AAV) extension from the Anaheim Ducks.
- Gauthier led the Ducks with 41 goals and 69 points in 76 games in 2025–26, and his primary leverage is withholding his services because he is not eligible for an offer sheet or arbitration.
- Anaheim has roughly $9 million in projected cap space after matching Leo Carlsson’s offer sheet, so the club would likely need to trade or move veteran salary to create room for a larger AAV or longer term for Gauthier.
- If Gauthier is not signed before the NHL’s December 1 signing cutoff he would be ineligible to play for the remainder of the 2026–27 season and the playoffs, increasing pressure on both sides to reach a deal.
- This standoff reflects changing pay benchmarks set by recent extensions for young stars and raises short‑term risks for the Ducks’ roster and season preparation while presenting long‑term contract and roster choices for GM Pat Verbeek.