Ducks Acquire John Carlson from Capitals

The Anaheim Ducks acquired veteran defenseman John Carlson from the Washington Capitals late Thursday night, bolstering their blue line ahead of the NHL trade deadline as they pursue a long-awaited playoff return. In exchange, the Capitals received a conditional first-round draft pick in either 2026 or 2027, along with a third-round pick in 2027. The deal, completed just after midnight on deadline day, marks the end of Carlson's 17-year tenure with Washington and provides the Ducks with a seasoned leader for their competitive push in the Pacific Division.

Carlson, 36, has recorded 10 goals and 36 assists for 46 points in 55 games this season, leading all Capitals skaters in ice time at more than 23 minutes per game. A right-handed shot, he brings offensive production from the back end, including a strong 5-on-5 scoring rate that ranks seventh among NHL defensemen. However, he has been sidelined since February 5 with a lower-body injury, though he was practicing with Washington prior to the trade. His debut timeline with Anaheim remains unclear, but he will join a right-side defense featuring captain Radko Gudas and Jacob Trouba, both in the final year of their contracts.