Ducks re-sign restricted free agent defenseman to five-year deal

The Anaheim Ducks on Sunday re-signed restricted free agent defenseman Pavel Mintyukov to a five-year contract extension worth $36 million. The agreement carries a $7.2 million average annual value against the salary cap, according to sources who spoke to ESPN. Mintyukov, 22, has recorded 69 points in 204 NHL games over three seasons.

Background on the signing The Ducks selected the Moscow native in the first round of the NHL draft. He posted a career-high eight goals and 112 blocked shots in 73 games last season. The signing occurred during a period of roster and salary-cap activity for the team.

Two veteran defensemen departed in free agency earlier in the week, and the club is weighing whether to match a five-year offer sheet signed by center Leo Carlsson.

Salary cap implications Mintyukov's new contract leaves the Ducks with just over $9.973 million in remaining cap space if they retain Carlsson. Restricted free agent forward Cutter Gauthier is also expected to receive a new contract exceeding $10 million annually. An NHL source said Mintyukov had been committed to staying with the team despite the possibility of an offer sheet from another club.