The Anaheim Ducks have matched a five-year, $90-million offer sheet for centre Leo Carlsson, ensuring he remains with the team through the 2030-31 season. The offer, originally extended by the Philadelphia Flyers on July 3, was matched by Anaheim on Thursday, July 9. Carlsson, who was the second-overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, expressed his desire to stay with the Ducks, calling Anaheim “home.”
Carlsson indicated that signing the offer sheet was a straightforward decision, noting its significant impact on his family. Despite the substantial contract, he stated that he would continue to be the same person and player, focusing on his game. He also mentioned that he had good conversations with Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek during the negotiation process, and there are no hard feelings between them.
The Flyers‘ pursuit of Carlsson was a calculated move by general manager Daniel Briere, according to Philadelphia Flyers captain Sean Couturier. Couturier praised Briere’s strategy, emphasizing that the general manager is making efforts to improve the team without sacrificing its future. Had the Ducks not matched the offer, the Flyers would have sent four first-round picks to Anaheim. Couturier believed this price would have been justified by both Carlsson’s talent and the immediate boost he would provide to the team.
Couturier highlighted the number of young prospects the Flyers have drafted in recent years, suggesting that the team cannot keep all of them. He described the offer to Carlsson as a “smart move, smart offer.” The veteran player also believes that the bold action of extending an offer sheet sends a message across the league that the Flyers are serious contenders. After experiencing post-season play in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the team’s general manager is focused on returning to that level of competition.
Carlsson reflected on the past week as a “weird week,” describing it as possibly the strangest of his life. He found relief once the deal was finalized, noting that his mother also felt relieved after a period of stress. He spent time trying not to dwell on the situation, engaging in activities like working out, playing golf, and spending time with friends.
The young centre also shared his experiences with the pressures that come with being a high draft pick and now a high-value player. He acknowledged that he has felt pressure since the draft but aims to continue growing as a player and maintaining a high level of performance throughout the year. Carlsson also mentioned that his teammates were supportive and happy for him, hoping he would remain with the Ducks. He stated that he always wanted to be a Duck and is excited to return.
Carlsson also spoke about experiencing the post-season for the first time, describing it as faster with harder hits. He noted the mental toll of the days between games but also called it the best time of his life so far, enjoying the excitement of playoff hockey and winning a round. He acknowledged that the business side of hockey was more extensive than he initially thought, but the offer was too good to decline. He discussed the situation with his teammates, who were all supportive of his decision.
The Ducks’ decision to match the offer sheet ensures that Carlsson, a key player, will continue to contribute to the team’s future. The move by the Flyers, while unsuccessful in acquiring Carlsson, demonstrated their aggressive approach to team building. Carlsson’s contract keeps him in Anaheim through the 2030-31 season.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
