sports
Hurricanes acquire free-agent rights to defenseman John Carlson
The Carolina Hurricanes obtained the free-agent rights to defenseman John Carlson on Saturday. The move gives the team a window to negotiate a contract before the free-agent signing period opens on Wednesday.
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The Carolina Hurricanes acquired the free-agent rights to defenseman John Carlson on Saturday. The transaction allows the team to negotiate a contract with Carlson before the free-agent signing period begins on Wednesday. The 36-year-old defenseman spent most of his career with the Washington Capitals before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2026 trade deadline.
In 71 games last season with both clubs, Carlson recorded 14 goals and 60 points.
Contract window and roster impact If signed, Carlson would add offensive production from the blue line and power-play support. The team already holds the reigning Stanley Cup title. The 2026 free-agent class has limited top-pairing talent. Rights to forwards Darren Raddysh and Alex Tuch were also traded earlier, and both players have signed new contracts.
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