The Ducks signed forward Cutter Gauthier to a three-year, entry-level contract after acquiring him from Philadelphia, where he refused to sign, bolstering their forward group with a top prospect who has excelled in NCAA hockey and international play.
The Ducks just made a big move. They’ve inked a deal with one of their brightest young stars. Cutter Gauthier is now on a three-year, entry-level contract with the team. The financial specifics? Those are under wraps. But here’s the kicker: Gauthier can hit the ice in their season finale against Vegas this Thursday.
Gauthier, only 19, was snagged fifth overall by Philadelphia in 2022. Everyone thought the Flyers scored big, nabbing a future star for their lineup. But, plot twist—Gauthier wasn’t feeling it. Last year, he dropped the bomb: he wouldn’t sign with Philly. The Flyers tried everything to sway him. No dice.
So, what’s a team to do? Philly’s GM, Daniel Briere, decided not to wait around. He traded Gauthier at his peak value, right after a standout performance at the World Juniors. Gauthier had lit up the scoreboard, tying for the lead in points. Anaheim stepped up with an offer Philly couldn’t refuse: Jamie Drysdale and a 2025 second-rounder.
Gauthier wasn’t just any player. With the U.S. National Team Development Program, he was a scoring machine. And at Boston College? The guy was unstoppable, racking up goals and assists like nobody’s business. This season? Even better. He nearly topped the charts in NCAA Division I scoring. Plus, he bagged some serious accolades—Hobey Baker Hat Trick Finalist, NCAA All-American, you name it.
Now, Gauthier’s joining the Ducks. And let me tell you, their center lineup is looking fierce. With names like Mason McTavish, Leo Carlsson, and Trevor Zegras, Anaheim’s got depth to spare. They might even let Gauthier try his hand on the wing next season. Who knows? But one thing’s for sure: the Ducks’ rebuild just got a whole lot more interesting.
