Ducks Extend Dostal, Invest in Young Core

The Anaheim Ducks have signed 25-year-old goaltender Lukas Dostal to a five-year, $32.5 million contract extension, avoiding arbitration and confirming him as their starting goalie after John Gibson's trade to the Detroit Red Wings. The deal has an average annual value of $6.5 million. Last season, Dostal recorded a .903 save percentage and a 3.10 goals-against average in 54 games, earning praise from GM Pat Verbeek, who called him a proven No. 1 goalie entering his prime. The signing generated mixed reactions among fans but reflects a major investment in Anaheim's young core, highlighted by Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, and Mason McTavish. Dostal expressed excitement about the team's future and confidence in the rebuilding process. The Ducks hope this extension will bring stability in net as they aim to end their playoff drought.