Veteran Defenseman John Carlson Joins Anaheim Ducks

Carlson's Ducks debut expected this weekend after trade deadline move from Washington Capitals

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:21pm

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The Anaheim Ducks made a surprising move at the NHL trade deadline, acquiring veteran defenseman John Carlson from the Washington Capitals. Carlson, who spent his entire career in Washington, is expected to make his Ducks debut either this Saturday against the Ottawa Senators or Sunday against the Montreal Canadiens.

Why it matters

The addition of Carlson, a Stanley Cup champion, brings championship pedigree and experience to a young Ducks team looking to make a playoff push in the wide-open Western Conference. Carlson will be tasked with mentoring Anaheim's up-and-coming defensemen like Jackson Lacombe, Pavel Mintyukov, and Olen Zellweger.

The details

The Ducks made the trade for Carlson early on trade deadline day, shocking the hockey world. The veteran blue liner had spent his entire 13-year NHL career with the Capitals, winning the Stanley Cup in 2018. Anaheim is hoping Carlson's leadership and two-way abilities will help bolster their defensive corps and provide a boost as they aim to secure a playoff spot.

  • The Ducks acquired Carlson from the Capitals on the 2026 NHL trade deadline day.
  • Carlson is expected to make his Ducks debut either this Saturday, March 15, 2026 against the Ottawa Senators or Sunday, March 16, 2026 against the Montreal Canadiens.

The players

John Carlson

A veteran defenseman who spent his entire 13-year NHL career with the Washington Capitals before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2026 trade deadline.

Jackson Lacombe

A young defenseman for the Anaheim Ducks who Carlson will be tasked with mentoring.

Pavel Mintyukov

Another young Ducks defenseman who Carlson will look to help develop.

Olen Zellweger

A promising young defenseman for the Anaheim Ducks who will benefit from Carlson's experience and guidance.

Pat Verbeek

The general manager of the Anaheim Ducks who orchestrated the trade to acquire John Carlson.

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What they’re saying

“74's Ducks debut 🔜”

— Anaheim Ducks, Official Twitter account (Twitter)

What’s next

Carlson is expected to make his Ducks debut either this Saturday against the Ottawa Senators or Sunday against the Montreal Canadiens.

The takeaway

The Ducks' acquisition of veteran defenseman John Carlson at the trade deadline is a savvy move that brings championship experience and leadership to a young Anaheim team looking to make a playoff push in the wide-open Western Conference.