"We have very high expectations for Leo. We are convinced that he will continue his strong development curve and become one of the league's top centres," the club's owners write in a press release.
Information about the huge contract began to circulate last week when the Philadelphia Flyers submitted a monster offer - a five-year contract worth $18 million, equivalent to just over 174 million kronor.
Carlsson: “Simple answer”
Anaheim then had two options: either match the offer, or let Carlsson go and receive four of the Flyers' first-round draft picks over the next four years. Anaheim had one week to make a decision.
Now it is clear that they will match the offer, and Carlsson will remain in California. The 21-year-old Swede will become the highest-paid player in the league.
"I haven't had time to take it in yet - you're happy and shocked. It's a contrast to sit here in the boys' room in Karlstad at the same time as getting that huge contract," says Carlsson during a press conference.
It was ultimately a simple answer. I want to be here and I was hoping they would match the offer. I understand it will put pressure on me, but I'm the same player.
Carlsson does not want to go into how the discussions went.
It's up to my agent to answer, but we've had good conversations.
The club: “Very happy”
"It's been a special week," says the 21-year-old.
Previously, Russian Kirill Kaprizov of the Minnesota Wild was the highest-paid player at $17 million per season. Edmonton Oilers centre Connor McDavid, considered by many to be the best hockey player in the world, has a salary of $12.5 million per season.
"We are very pleased to have Leo under contract for the next five years. Leo is a strong person with character and is one of the best players in the league. Our intention has always been to match other offers," said Anaheim general manager Pat Verbeek.
Carlsson broke through at SHL club Örebro, and with Tre Kronor he took part in the 2025 World Championship bronze-medal run. He was also selected for the Olympics last winter but missed the tournament due to injury.
Leo Carlsson scored 67 points (29 goals and 38 assists) in 70 regular-season games with Anaheim last season.
