Ducks’ Leo Carlsson said it was ‘hard to say no’ to lucrative offer sheet despite desire to stay in Anaheim

Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson explained in a letter to fans that it was hard to turn down a massive offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers, despite always intending to remain in Anaheim. In July, Carlsson signed a five-year offer sheet carrying an $18 million AAV with Philadelphia, which Anaheim subsequently matched to retain the 21-year-old center through the 2030-31 season.

Carlsson noted that the lucrative contract was difficult to pass up given his situation, but emphasized his deep affinity for Orange County and his supportive teammates. The 2023 second overall draft pick scored 67 points last season to help guide the Ducks to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.