Carlson Traded from Capitals to Ducks

0:00NHL stories making news on March 7. John Carlson, the 36-year-old defenseman, got traded from the Washington capitals to the Anaheim Ducks after 17 seasons with the team. The capitals picked him up in the first round of the 2008 draft and got a conditional first-round pick in 2026, plus A, third-rounder in 2027 in return. Carlson found out late Thursday night through buzzing phone messages, including one from his cousin, Plowling Snow, in Massachusetts. The trade came right before the 2026 NHL trade deadline at 3pm, Eastern on Friday. Carlson had a solid hunch it might happen as the team started calling, but the middle of the night timing threw him off. He holds capitals records for defenseman and goals, assists, points, power play points, and games played, with 46 points in 55 games. This season, Carlson called it a gut punch, packing up quickly and saying he buys the family and teammates like Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson.

1:00His wife and four young kids face a big move across the country, sparking emotional talks with capitals GM Chris Patrick, who said both were upset, but understood the business side. Still, Carlson stayed professional through the sadness. Meanwhile, the Ducks sit second in the Pacific Division at 34 wins, 24 losses, and three overtime losses, just one point behind. Vegas and chasing playoffs for the first time since 2017-18. They value Carlson's experience and puck skills to boost their young core, like Leo Carlson and Mason McTavish alongside bets like Alex Killorne. Carlson is thrilled about joining the talented Ducks mix, ready to contribute on ice and mentor mentally for a D-Playoff run. He heads to Anaheim excited for the new challenge, after wrapping his head around, leaving a long Washington run. His DNA story comes to you thanks to our sponsor. Some people meditate, I just lay down and press play, S-O-L-L-I-SoliPillow.com.