John Carlson Traded to the Anaheim Ducks

Every NHL Trade Deadline has a shocking move sending a franchise icon to another team, and this year is no exception.

John Carlson has been traded to the Anaheim Ducks for a conditional 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 third-round pick.

The 36-year-old defender is playing at a near point-per-game pace for Washington this year. He’s posted 46 points (10G, 36A) in 55 games played this season, but that’s a small idea of Carlson’s pedigree.

He leads the Washington Capitals in games played (1,135), goals (166), assists (605), points (771) and has one Stanley Cup with the team.

You can make the argument that the Capitals traded their franchise’s best defenseman it’s ever had.

For a 27th overall draft selection in 2008 by Washington, his resume speaks for itself.

Carlson was a Norris Trophy runner-up in 2019-20 and was named to the NHL First All-Star Team that same season. He recorded a career-high 75 points (15G, 60A) to earn the honours he did.

Carlson’s contributions aren’t solely about his hockey ability; they’re about the veteran presence Anaheim adds to its already strong defensive corps.

Anaheim is taking on Carlson’s full $8 million salary for the season, and it’s unclear if Carlsson will elect to test the unrestricted free agent market, re-sign in Anaheim, or call it a career.

As Anaheim takes a big swing, one has to wonder if they shore up some depth elsewhere without immediately taking away from their roster.

Anaheim is still in the playoff hunt, and they’re aggressive in trying to secure that postseason appearance. Meanwhile, Washington sits four points out of a playoff spot and is likely selling off their veteran pieces regardless of their playoff status.