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Capitals Seek Additions After Carlson Trade, Garland Fail
Washington still looking to buy and sell ahead of NHL trade deadline
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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The Washington Capitals have made some surprising moves ahead of the NHL trade deadline, including trading away veteran defenseman John Carlson and failing to acquire Conor Garland. However, the team is still looking to add pieces before the deadline, according to hockey insider Pierre LeBrun.
Why it matters
The Capitals' recent trades and failed acquisitions suggest they are taking a realistic approach to their roster and playoff chances this season. By trading Carlson, they have signaled a willingness to make tough decisions, while their continued pursuit of new players shows they are still aiming to improve the team.
The details
The Capitals traded Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in a shocking move, with the veteran defenseman reportedly finding out about the trade while he was asleep. The team also failed in their attempt to acquire Conor Garland from the Vancouver Canucks, who instead was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Despite these moves, the Capitals are still looking to add a piece before the trade deadline, according to LeBrun.
- The NHL Trade Deadline is less than six hours away on March 6, 2026.
- The Capitals traded John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks on the morning of March 6, 2026.
The players
John Carlson
A veteran defenseman who was traded by the Washington Capitals to the Anaheim Ducks.
Conor Garland
A forward who was the subject of failed trade negotiations between the Capitals and the Vancouver Canucks, before being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Pierre LeBrun
A hockey insider who reported on the Capitals' trade activity and their continued pursuit of additions before the trade deadline.
What they’re saying
“The trade happened so late that John Carlson was asleep and didn't find out until this morning. Tough trade for the Caps obviously, but their play since the break forced them to be realistic (Dowd trade as well). Having said that, they tried on Conor Garland and will try to add a piece today if possible.”
— Pierre LeBrun, Hockey Insider (The Athletic)
What’s next
The Capitals will continue to explore trade options ahead of the 3 p.m. ET deadline on March 6, 2026, as they look to both buy and sell players to improve their roster for the remainder of the season.
The takeaway
The Capitals' recent trades and failed acquisitions demonstrate their willingness to make tough decisions and take a realistic approach to their roster and playoff chances this season. While the team has parted ways with a veteran like Carlson, they remain committed to improving the team and are still actively seeking additions before the trade deadline.
