Carlsson’s $18M Contract Burden | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 10, 2026 · 1m

Leo Carlsson just became the NHL’s highest-paid player after the Ducks matched the Flyers’ massive five-year, $18M offer sheet — and now he’s got to deliver superstar-level results right away. Already showing flashes of brilliance, his breakout 2023-24 season — 29 goals, 67 points in 70 games — proved he can handle top center duties, thanks to his elite speed, improved shot selection, and physical presence. But with that huge contract comes immense pressure: the Ducks’ roster flexibility is slashed, and Carlsson must elevate his game even further — especially in the playoffs — to carry the…