Cutter Gauthier has given the Anaheim Ducks a major commitment after signing a six-year, $81 million extension. The 22-year-old forward will carry a $13.5 million average annual value through the 2031-32 NHL season.
Gauthier earned the massive deal after a breakout 2025-26 campaign. He led Anaheim with 41 goals and 69 points in 76 regular-season games, helping the Ducks end a seven-year playoff drought.
Gauthier also produced 12 points in 12 playoff games, leading Anaheim in postseason scoring. His regular-season production placed him among the NHL’s top goal scorers.
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The contract soon caught NHL fans off guard, with reactions pouring in after the numbers emerged on X.
One fan wrote, “I’m kinda shocked the AAV is that number, kinda thought it would be higher given the circumstances.”
Another fan viewed the contract differently, saying, “Pretty decent; they scared Ducks fans with 15-16-17M and end up at a pretty fair price, good for him and the team!”
A third user wrote, “Actually cheaper than I would’ve thought. I call that a win for Verbeek. Granted, they never would’ve been in this situation in the first place had he just paid Leo what he was worth instead of trying to play hardball, but still.”
Another user recognized GM Pat Verbeek’s strong negotiations, saying, “I’ll give Verbeek his flowers for this one. Never thought he’d sign for less than $16-$17M. That’s a solid, solid deal.”
Cutter Gauthier’s contract follows Leo Carlsson’s huge deal
The timing of his extension made the contract even more notable. Anaheim had already committed heavily to young center Leo Carlsson after matching the Philadelphia Flyers’ five-year, $90 million offer sheet.
Carlsson’s $18 million AAV created major pressure on Anaheim’s salary structure. The Ducks then placed veteran Chris Kreider on unconditional waivers to terminate his contract, removing $6.5 million from their books.
Gauthier’s $13.5 million AAV still represents a major investment. However, his production gives Anaheim a clear reason to view him as a key part of its future.
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Gauthier joined the Ducks from Philadelphia in January 2024. Anaheim acquired him in the Jamie Drysdale trade, and he quickly became an important part of the team’s young core.
“This is a very exciting day for my family and me,” Gauthier said, after signing the deal. “I’m so pleased to be able to sign long term with the Ducks and be part of what I believe is a great future.”
For Anaheim, the next challenge will be building around Gauthier and Carlsson while managing a tighter salary cap.
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