The Anaheim Ducks have secured one of their most promising young players for the long term, signing 22-year-old left wing Cutter Gauthier to a six-year contract on Tuesday. The deal carries an average annual value of $13.5 million, according to a source.
The signing came after the Ducks created salary-cap space by releasing Chris Kreider, a move that gave the club the financial flexibility needed to complete the extension.
General manager Pat Verbeek said in a statement that Gauthier is "a major part of our young core."
The commitment reflects the organization's confidence in Gauthier, who at 22 is already viewed as a foundational piece for the franchise's future.
