Cutter Gauthier has agreed to a six-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks, the team announced Tuesday. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the deal carries a $13.5 million average annual value (AAV) for a total of $81 million.
Contract Structure and Timing
Friedman reports that $69.5 million of the contract will be paid in signing bonuses. This structure is significant because the rules governing how bonuses can be distributed change on Wednesday when the new collective bargaining agreement takes effect.
Breakout Season and Playoff Performance
The 22-year-old forward exploded for 41 goals and 69 points last season as a sophomore, helping Anaheim return to the playoffs for the first time in eight years. He added 12 points in 12 playoff games as the Ducks advanced to the second round.
Management Reaction
“We are pleased to get Cutter signed to a long-term deal and have him in camp on time,” general manager Pat Verbeek said in a statement released by the team. “He’s a major part of our young core, a pure goal-scoring talent that will continue progressing into an elite NHL player.”
Career Trajectory
In his rookie season in 2024-25, Gauthier eclipsed the 20-goal mark and recorded 44 points in 82 games, finishing fifth in Calder Trophy voting. Across 159 career games, Gauthier has accumulated 61 goals and 114 points.
Player Perspective
“This is a very exciting day for my family and I,” added Gauthier. “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.”
Offseason Context
Earlier in the offseason, the Ducks signed Leo Carlsson to a five-year, $90-million contract after he signed an offer sheet for that amount from the Philadelphia Flyers, forcing Anaheim to match. Gauthier was originally drafted by the Flyers fifth overall in 2022 but was traded to the Ducks before making his NHL debut.
