The Anaheim Ducks just handed defenseman Pavel Mintyukov a five-year, $7.2M average annual value contract — a bold move betting on his potential to become a top-four blueliner despite inconsistent offensive output. Drafted 10th overall in 2022, Mintyukov’s development has been uneven, but his defensive play, especially on the PK, earned him trust. Now he’ll carry heavier responsibilities — power play time, penalty kill minutes, and over 20 minutes per game. Critics call it an overpay, but GM Pat Verbeek’s history of letting RFA deals drag out suggests this is a strategic gamble fueled by cap constraints and draft pedigree. With key young players like Gauthier and Hinds still unsigned, and veterans like Vatrano possibly on the move, the Ducks are navigating a tightrope: rebuilding with high hopes while managing salary limits. Mintyukov’s next chapter is a make-or-break moment — prove he’s worth the big money or risk becoming a cautionary tale for overhyped prospects.
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