Carolina Hurricanes Acquire Negotiating Rights to Defenseman John Carlson from Anaheim Ducks
The Carolina Hurricanes have acquired the negotiating rights to defenseman John Carlson from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for prospect Kyle Masters and a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Carlson, 36, played for the Ducks last season after being traded from the Washington Capitals. He had a productive season with 14 goals and 60 points in 71 games between the Capitals and Ducks, averaging over 23 minutes of ice time. In the playoffs, Carlson contributed six assists in 12 games as the Ducks were eliminated in the second round.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Carlson is a right-shot defenseman who recently completed an eight-year, $64 million contract with a cap hit of $8 million. Drafted by the Capitals in 2008, he has amassed 170 goals and 785 points in over 1,100 career games split between the Capitals and Ducks. Carlson played a key role in the Capitals' Stanley Cup win in 2018, recording five goals and 20 points in 24 playoff games. Additionally, he represented the United States at the 2014 Winter Olympics and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.
In summary, the Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move by acquiring the negotiating rights to veteran defenseman John Carlson from the Anaheim Ducks. With an impressive career record and playoff experience, Carlson brings valuable skills and leadership to the Hurricanes' roster. This trade marks an important step for the Hurricanes as they aim to strengthen their defensive lineup for the upcoming season.