NHL Rumor Roundup: Ducks And Flyers Deal With Consequences After Leo Carlsson Offer Sheet
The Anaheim Ducks matched the Philadelphia Flyers' offer sheet to Leo Carlson last Thursday, ending a nearly week-long saga that dominated NHL headlines.
Carlsson's $18 million average annual value over the next five seasons is an NHL record, though it's unlikely to last once Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar and San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini sign their contract extensions.
Meanwhile, the Ducks and Flyers must deal with the consequences of their actions.
Philadelphia Flyers Face Playoff Doubts After Leo Carlsson Gamble
The Philadelphia Flyers swung and missed on Leo Carlsson with their offer sheet. They have limited desirable options to upgrade their No. 1 center now. Will they make the playoffs now?
As for the Flyers, they're still without an established first-line center.
Some observers wondered what their alternate plan would be if the Ducks matched their offer. Adam Fantilli of the Columbus Blue Jacketswas suggested as their "Plan B."
However, Kevin Kurz of The Athletic doubted Flyers GM Daniel Briere would attempt to use an offer sheet to land another center.
Citing team sources, Kurz indicated that the Carlsson offer sheet was as much about circumstances as it was about the player. He stated that the Flyers' offer was well-planned, designed to put so much economic pressure on the Ducks that they'd let Carlsson go.
Finding a suitable first-line center won't be easy in the trade market. Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings requested a trade, but the Flyers aren't on his four-team trade list.
According to Kurz, the Flyers could opt to bolster the depth around their promising young players. They must also re-sign forward Trevor Zegras and defenseman Jamie Drysdale before their arbitration hearings next week.
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This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 7:20 AM.