Leo Carlsson signs $18 million contract with Anaheim Ducks

Swedish forward Leo Carlsson will become the NHL’s highest‑paid player next season after the Anaheim Ducks matched an $18 million‑per‑year offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers. General manager Pat Verbeek completed the deal, giving Carlsson a contract that includes a large signing bonus. The 21‑year‑old, drafted second overall in 2023, posted 67 points (29 goals, 38 assists) in 70 games last season. Ducks teammate Frank Vatrano praised Carlsson’s potential, saying he could become a 100‑point player. Carlsson’s new deal makes him a marquee star for the Ducks and a focal point of their offense.