Hurricanes looking to add major piece after acquiring John Carlson's free-agent rights

The Carolina Hurricanes already have the NHL's best team and they are trying to make it even better for the 2026-27 season. The reigning Stanley Cup champions made a potentially major move on Saturday when they acquired the free-agent rights to defenseman John Carlson.

This gives the Hurricanes the opportunity to work out a contract with Carlson before the free-agent signing period opens on Wednesday.

Carlson, a long time member of the Washington Capitals, was traded to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2026 trade deadline for a first-round pick.

If the Hurricanes can get Carlson signed, it would be a huge lift to an already elite team.

John Carlson would make Hurricanes defense even better 

Even though Carlson is 36 years old and not quite the same player he was at his peak, he remains a big offensive threat from the blue line and would bring a major lift to Carolina's power play.

In 71 games for the Capitals and Ducks this past season, he scored 14 goals with 60 total points.