The Anaheim Ducks, having recently reached the playoffs, aim to build on their success. General Manager Pat Verbeek faces crucial decisions regarding their impending free agents and potential moves in the trade market. The Ducks currently possess approximately $40 million in projected salary cap space.
Key restricted free agents (RFAs) include forwards Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, both anticipated to receive significant raises. Despite a history of challenging negotiations, the Ducks’ management will need to address these situations, especially concerning their top center and leading goal scorer. While discussions have not yet begun, both parties are eager to finalize agreements before training camp.
Defensemen Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger are also RFAs. Given the Ducks’ abundance of defensemen, interest from other teams is expected.
On the unrestricted free agent (UFA) front, veteran defensemen Jacob Trouba, John Carlson, and Radko Gudas are of note. Trouba was paired with Jackson LaCombe. The Ducks acquired Carlson at the trade deadline for a first-round pick, but no contract discussions have occurred. Gudas has served as the team’s captain.
Up front, forwards Ross Johnston, Jansen Harkins, and Jeffrey Viel, who brought physicality to the team, are also UFAs. Viel had become a regular in the lineup.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly open to discussing trades for any player on their roster, with the sole exception of Auston Matthews. Chris Johnston reported that the Leafs’ General Manager is making it known to other teams that he is willing to negotiate for everyone except Matthews, emphasizing their view of him as a foundational piece for the future.
While the Leafs are not necessarily looking to trade all their players, they are signaling an openness to moving other significant assets as they seek creative ways to improve the team’s performance.
