ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Not many players will have as good a day as Frank Vatrano had on Sunday. Vatrano agreed to a three-year contract extension through the 2027-28 season with Anaheim and then had two goals and an assist in the Ducks' 4-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
“I always say I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for the guys in this room. They push me every day to be my best,” Vatrano said after the game. “This is one of the best rooms I’ve ever been a part of. I’m excited for the change here and trying to buildthat winning culture.”
The 30-year-old forward is now secured for three additional seasons, marking his third year with the Ducks, during which he has amassed 70 goals and 54 assists over 201 games. This season alone, Vatrano has made headlines with 11 goals and 12 assists.
A source knowledgeable about the deal disclosed to The Associated Press the contract will pay Vatrano $3 million each year for the next three seasons, alongside $9 million as deferred salary starting in 2035. This arrangement allows the Ducks to keep their salary cap low, thereby providing flexibility for future contracts.
“We’re excited to have Frank in the sensethat he wants to be here,” said Pat Verbeek, the team's general manager, before the game. “We value his goal-scoring ability, and I think that's going to be important as we start to become more competitive over the next two years.”
Vatrano's ability to score has made him one of the Ducks' key players since he joined the team as a free agent. Last season, he led the Ducks with 37 goals and 60 points, prompting Verbeek to resist offers to trade him to contenders. Instead, the team views him as central to their rebuilding effort.
The deferred salary structure of Vatrano’s contract allowed the Ducks to maintain flexibility under the salary cap. The team is also planning for the future as several talented players currently on entry-level contracts will soon enter free agency.
“I think my experience as a former player is players don’t realize when you retire, those checks... suddenly stop. This allowed Frank to provide for his family and take care of them long after retirement. It became quite the win for both sides,” Verbeek explained.
Vatrano's current performance continues to exemplify his scoring skills. According to coach Greg Cronin, “He’s converting... to being a reliable goal scorer. I think anybody gets over 25 goals can be considered as such. I’m sure the contract is going to lift some weight off his shoulders.”
The Ducks' recent game against Tampa Bay saw them emerge victorious, securing their fourth win of the season. With Vatrano contributing significantly to this success, the Ducks appear energized and ready to push forward.
Looking long-term, the Ducks are fostering young talent, with several players slated to become stars. Among them are forward Leo Carlsson and defensemen Olen Zellweger, all of whom are still on rookie contracts. Vatrano acknowledges his role extends beyond just his individual achievements, emphasizing, “I wanted to be part of this younger team, supporting them as they grow.”
With Vatrano now firmly part of the Ducks' future plans, his focus can shift toward creating not just personal success, but contributing to the culture and growth of the entire team as they navigate through this rebuilding phase together.
Overall, the Ducks have secured their commitment to Vatrano, setting a promising stage for not only his career but for the team's competitive reemergence. This win on Sunday was more than just another game; it symbolized the hopeful direction Anaheim is heading.