Ducks get John Carlson, Sabres and Blue Jackets open NHL trade deadline day with moves

Ducks get John Carlson, Sabres and Blue Jackets open NHL trade deadline day with moves The Anaheim Ducks pulled off a stunner of a move with less than 14 hours to go before the NHL trade deadline By STEPHEN WHYNO AP hockey writer March 6, 2026, 12:43 AM John Carlson is going to the Anaheim Ducks as part of a surprising deal from the Washington Capitals agreed to just after midnight on NHL trade deadline day. Anaheim sent a conditional first-round pick in either this or next year's draft plus a 2027 third-rounder to Washington for Carlson, a 36-year-old defenseman who has only played in the league for the Capitals since 2009 and helped them win the Stanley Cup in 2018. “John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup,” Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said. “We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch.” Carlson is a pending free agent without a contract beyond this year but was not expected to get moved before the deadline. He joins the Ducks as they look to end a seven-year playoff drought. “John’s determination, leadership, persistence and skill helped our franchise reach new heights and cemented him as a cornerstone and one of the greatest players in Capitals history,” Washington GM Chris Patrick said. “His contributions to our organization and the Washington, D.C., community both on and off the ice have been immeasurable. We are incredibly grateful for everything John has given to our team.” The Capitals did not retain any salary, and Carlson does not have a contract extension in place with the Ducks. Carlson had a 10-team no-trade list, but Anaheim was not on it. Carlson’s right-handed shot and 46 points from the blue line — more than any defenseman on Anaheim’s roster — appear to fill clear needs for the Ducks, who have surged into second place in the Pacific Division. The Ducks likely will have to make another move because Carlson’s arrival will put eight...