Leo Carlsson Addresses Critics Following $90 Million Flyers Offer Sheet Episode

Leo Carlsson acknowledges the lingering issue from this past summer.

During the hot July period, Carlsson was presented with and accepted a $90 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers, which the Anaheim Ducks later matched.

Just three days ahead of the Ducks’ season‑opening clash with the Vegas Golden Knights, Carlsson published a letter to Anaheim supporters titled “Dear Ducks Fans,” explaining his decision to accept the offer.

He also emphasized that his heart remains in Anaheim.

“The contract negotiations over the summer were a lot to deal with for everybody, but when all is said and done, Anaheim is ultimately where I want to be for the rest of my life,” Carlsson wrote in the letter. “That to me was always a no-brainer. This was a unique situation, but I of course always wanted to be here.”

He added that he appreciates Orange County’s dining scene, its people, the climate, and the overall environment.

On Wednesday, Eric Stephens of The Athletic interviewed the Ducks’ highest‑paid player about the upcoming pressures.

“I don’t think it’s going to be anything crazy, to be honest. That’s just what I think,” Carlsson said to Stephens. “Obviously, a couple of my chirps here and there probably. And then I just have to show it with my game as well. See how it is.”

Although only two games have been played this season, Carlsson has tallied five points, including a goal in the home opener versus the Florida Panthers.

Anaheim supporters seem to have moved past the summer saga, greeting Carlsson with a loud ovation when his name was announced during pregame introductions.

“We have great fans here,” Carlsson said to Stephens. “It feels great every time that happens. You know, you feel like you’re doing something good. I love the fans. Hopefully they love me as well, so it’s fun.”

Having settled the prolonged contract talks, Carlsson now holds the NHL’s highest cap hit at $18 million. However, Macklin Celebrini (18.8 million AAV) and Cale Makar (20.4 million AAV), both of whom signed extensions, are set to exceed him beginning next season.

“[It’s] the organization and me having the idea to just really show everybody that I really want to be here if there’s still any doubters out there,” Carlsson said to Stephens. “Got a great response from it as well. Happy I did it.”

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