Carlsson, Gauthier extensions will dictate the Ducks’ offseason

While the Anaheim Ducks were one of the NHL’s feel-good stories this past season, they need to ensure they weren’t just a flash in the pan.

The Ducks have a lot of exceptional young talent on their roster, with the hopes of them maintaining success for the long haul. Two of which are forwards, Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier. The duo sat 1-2 in scoring during the regular season and playoffs. Gauthier posted 69 points in 76 games during the regular season, with Carlsson finishing right behind him with 67 points in 70 appearances. In the postseason, they were crucial in Anaheim winning a playoff series for the first time in nine years, as Gauthier and Carlsson scored 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Both players are heading into the offseason as restricted free agents. According to PuckPedia, the Ducks have over $38.7 million in cap space next season. While the team’s back end needs some work, locking up their two best offensive weapons long term should be near the top of the agenda.

On Tuesday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Tyler Yaremchuk and Carter Hutton explain why Carlsson and Gauthier’s next contracts are going to be a big part of the Ducks’ summer plans.

Tyler Yaremchuk: They had big steps forward this year with Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, and the first order of business for Pat Verbeek…is you need big money extensions for both Carlsson and Gauthier.

Carter Hutton: I think that’s an important factor here, is getting those guys locked up, because that is going to be your future, right? These guys have proven they’re stars, they’re the up-and-comers. Just like we touched on with the Vancouver Canucks in this specific division, you’re trying to grow at a pace where these teams are ready to take that step forward, and they proved that this year.

You can watch the full segment and entire episode here…