John Carlson Wants to Sign Capitals Extension Under One Condition, Claims Pierre LeBrun

“(Carlson) never wanted to leave, and he doesn’t want to leave after this season, either, all things being equal. But there also haven’t been any real contract talks yet,” LeBrun wrote. “He turns 36 in January and would rather stay in Washington, but he remains a very effective player.

“I don’t think this is a situation where he’s willing to just take absolutely anything in order to stay. He’s looking for a fair deal.”

Carlson, 35, remains a central piece of the Capitals’ core. He posted five goals and 46 assists for 51 points in 79 regular-season games last season, delivered three more points in 10 postseason outings, and led all Washington defensemen in scoring.

The defenseman, a Capitals alternate captain for six seasons, enters 2025-26 as the franchise leader in games played (1,088), goals (156), assists (569) and points (725) by a blueliner.

Per Russian Machine Never Breaks' Chris Cerullo, Carlson told reporters Thursday that he is not dwelling on his future.

“I think anybody would probably love security. I think that’s a normal thought to have, but I’m not thinking about it now,” Carlson said. “I’ve always been pretty good at focusing on what I can control.”

Capitals general manager Chris Patrick said in May that while the team values Carlson’s contributions, management is also working to transition toward a younger roster.

“(Carlson) is obviously a huge part of our team and had a great season, and all expectations are he's going to have another great season next year,” Patrick said. “It probably makes sense just to see how things play out a little bit.

“We're a mature team and transitioning to a younger team, and we just want to make sure that we're putting guys in the right position to have success and that expectations line up. So, nothing imminent this summer.”

The Capitals will get their season going with a matchup against the Boston Bruins on Oct. 8.