Chris Patrick explains how John Carlson’s late-night trade to the Ducks went down and why it was as ‘respectful as possible’
RMNB • • sports
Key Points:
- The Washington Capitals traded longtime defenseman John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a first-round pick (2026 or 2027) and a third-round pick in 2027, marking their biggest trade before the NHL deadline.
- General Manager Chris Patrick explained that extension talks with Carlson had stalled weeks earlier, and the team faced pressure from other interested clubs as they fell out of playoff contention.
- Carlson was not involved in trade negotiations and only learned of the deal after it was finalized past midnight, with Patrick choosing to inform him early morning to avoid leaks on social media.
- Patrick emphasized the team's respect for Carlson, expressing regret over the timing but explaining the difficult choice between privacy and potential leaks, and described their emotional conversation
