NHL rumors: Ducks facing yet another offer sheet dilemma after Flyers' Leo Carlsson bombshell appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Anaheim Ducks are a part of the summer's juiciest NHL drama. Leo Carlsson signed an offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers , leaving the Ducks with a tough decision. Now, according to Frank Seravalli, Pavel Mintyukov is on the precipice of signing an offer sheet of his own.
"Sources say [Ducks] have been notified that an offer sheet is pending with defenseman Pavel Mintyukov," Seravalli reported. "Sounds like the looming offer sheet will ultimately produce a deal in Anaheim as Mintyukov's preference is to be a Duck."
Mintyukov was drafted tenth overall by the Ducks in 2022, but has struggled to crack the lineup. With Jacob Trouba , Radko Gudas , and John Carlson gone in free agency, Anaheim needs a defenseman. Seravalli's reporting indicates that he will return to Anaheim regardless, but it is still another decision Pat Verbeek has to make.
Verbeek has made a name for himself as a tough negotiator in his front-office career. Reports surfaced that the Mason McTavish negotiations impacted the player, leading to his poor season and eventual trade . It is possible that led to both Carlsson and Mintyukov negotiating deals elsewhere.
If the Ducks are going to play hardball with every young restricted free agent, it may not work. Carlsson has proven that the players hold the power, even as RFAs. And while offer sheets are rarely used and expensive for the bidding team, they can be a negotiating tool for the player in tough situations.
Mintyukov has not proven as much as Carlsson has at the NHL level. This deal is unlikely to be as expensive as Carlsson's, which will make it easier for Anaheim to match. And, luckily for them, Cutter Gauthier is not eligible for an offer sheet. They may now have two offer sheets to decide on in the next week.
Related: Ducks lock up Pavel Mintyukov with new contract with offer sheet looming
Related: Ducks rumors: Anaheim's offer to Leo Carlsson 'hours' before Flyers offer sheet
