The Anaheim Ducks are poised to have significant salary cap space this offseason, projected at around $40 million. However, this ample room will be considerably reduced by their restricted free agents (RFAs). Forwards Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier are expected to command substantial raises, and while negotiations have yet to begin, both the Ducks and the players aim for a resolution before training camp. The team also faces decisions regarding RFAs defenseman Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger. With a current surplus of defensemen, teams are anticipated to inquire about their availability.
On the unrestricted free agent (UFA) front, the Ducks have several veteran defensemen whose contracts are expiring, including Jacob Trouba, John Carlson, and Radko Gudas. Trouba was recently partnered with Jackson LaCombe. The Ducks acquired Carlson at the trade deadline for a first-round pick, and contract discussions have not yet commenced. Gudas has served as the team’s captain.
Up front, the Ducks have RFAs Ross Johnston, Jansen Harkins, and Jeffrey Viel, all of whom brought a physical presence to the lineup. Viel, in particular, established himself as a regular player.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly signaling to other NHL teams that they are open to discussing trades for any player on their roster, with one significant exception: Auston Matthews. According to reports, the Leafs are looking to improve their team creatively and are willing to move even key players to achieve this goal. However, Matthews is considered a cornerstone of the team’s future, and he is not available for trade discussions.
