Ducks acquire D John Carlson from Caps in late-night trade

Field Level Media|published: Fri 6th March, 10:22 2026

Jan 31, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson (74) passes the puck during the third period against the Carolina Hurricanes at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

The Anaheim Ducks acquired defenseman John Carlson from the Washington Capitals in a late-night trade.

How late? Well, Carlson admitted he was asleep at the time of the trade and didn't find out until Friday morning, per TSN's Pierre LeBrun.

The Capitals received a conditional first-round pick in either the 2026 or 2027 NHL Draft and a third-round selection in 2027 in the deal. If the Ducks do not qualify for the playoffs, they will have the option to retain the 2026 pick and instead send Washington a first-round pick in 2027.

The Capitals are the only team Carlson has played for since being picked by Washington in the first round of the 2008 NHL Draft.

"Since joining our organization 17 years ago, John Carlson has exemplified what it means to be a Washington Capital every day," Capitals general manager Chris Patrick said. "John's determination, leadership, persistence and skill helped our franchise reach new heights and cemented him as a cornerstone and one of the greatest players in Capitals history. His contributions to our organization and the Washington, D.C., community both on and off the ice have been immeasurable. We are incredibly grateful for everything John has given to our team and wish him and his family nothing but the best moving forward with Anaheim."

Carlson, 36, recorded 46 points (10 goals, 36 assists) and averages 22:52 of ice time in 55 games this season. He is playing in the final season of an eight-year, $64 million contract and is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

A Stanley Cup champion with Washington, Carlson is the franchise's all-time leader among defensemen in goals (166), assists (605), points (771), power-play points (273) and games played (1,143).

"John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup," Anaheim general manager Pat Verbeek said. "We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch."

--Field Level Media

Latest