What happened: Yahoo NHL’s offseason roundup says Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek faces key decisions after a breakthrough playoff run, led by John Carlson’s future. The report also points to potential trade talks with the St Louis Blues as Anaheim looks to reinforce a contending core.

Why it matters: Carlson’s status matters because Anaheim paid deadline capital to add him and now must decide whether he is part of the next phase or a short-term push. The Ducks’ second-round playoff run changed the tone of the offseason, raising the stakes around whether Verbeek adds, retains or reshapes around the group that just broke through.

What to watch: Watch for clarity on Carlson’s contract path before the July 1 market opens. Any Ducks-Blues framework would signal whether Anaheim is chasing immediate roster help or a broader offseason reset.