Cutter Gauthier’s contract standoff with the Anaheim Ducks has created a new uncertainty around the organization. It has also led to speculation about a potential Dylan Larkin trade.
Gauthier rejected a four-year, $52 million offer from Anaheim, per NHL Network Radio contributor Paul Shaheen. The dispute has become more serious as training camp approaches, with the Ducks facing difficult salary-cap decisions.
Speaking on Daily Faceoff’s “Morning Cuppa Hockey,” ESPN telestration producer Steve Peters discussed the situation. He thinks Gauthier could eventually leave Anaheim if the sides cannot reach an agreement.
“No, he’s not on the ice,” Peters said. “I don’t think he’s there to play. I think he’s digging his heels in.”
Peters also pointed to Anaheim’s limited options. “Unfortunately, Anaheim’s in a position they’re backed up against the wall because of the contract that they’ve given,” he said.
The Ducks already committed heavily to Leo Carlsson after matching Philadelphia’s $18M AAV offer sheet. That contract has increased pressure on Anaheim to resolve Gauthier’s situation without weakening the roster.
Colby Cohen then raised an intriguing possibility involving Larkin, the Detroit Red Wings captain. The Detroit center reportedly wants a change, while Gauthier’s standoff could force Anaheim to consider major roster moves.
Why a Cutter Gauthier-Dylan Larkin trade remains difficult
Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Anaheim Ducks forward Cutter Gauthier (61) carries the puck up-ice at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Cohen made his own position clear. “I wouldn’t trade Larkin for Cutter Gauthier straight up,” he said.
That assessment reflects the different stages of the players’ careers. Larkin remains an established top-line center and franchise captain, while Gauthier is still developing into a major offensive force.
Peters also questioned whether Anaheim could realistically solve the situation through a major trade. “I don’t see how it gets done in Anaheim,” Cohen said.
The larger issue is asset value. “You have an asset that is just losing value by the day,” Cohen said about a prolonged Gauthier holdout.
So, from a roster-building perspective, Anaheim cannot afford to let the situation drag indefinitely. Gauthier scored 41 goals and 69 points last season, making him central to the Ducks’ forward group.
MORE: Mike Rupp calls for Red Wings to remove Dylan Larkin as captain before camp
A trade involving Larkin would require significant financial and roster adjustments. Detroit also has limited leverage because Larkin controls his destination through his no-movement clause.
“I might sit with Petey on this one and say, I think Cutter Gauthier ends up in a different uniform,” Cohen said.
For now, that remains speculation. The immediate priority for Anaheim is reaching an agreement with Gauthier before the dispute damages both sides.
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