WASHINGTON (7News) — The Washington Capitals are trading defenseman John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in a deal that was struck ahead of the NHL trade deadline.

In return, the Caps acquired a conditional first-round pick in either the 2026 NHL draft or the 2027 NHL draft, as well as a third-round pick in the 2027 NHL draft.

Carlson, 36, has played for the Capitals since 2009. He helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2018.

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“Since joining our organization 17 years ago, John Carlson has exemplified what it means to be a Washington Capital every day,” Caps GM Chris Patrick said. “John’s determination, leadership, persistence and skill helped our franchise reach new heights and cemented him as a cornerstone and one of the greatest players in Capitals history.

Carlson is a pending free agent without a contract beyond this year, but was not expected to get moved before the deadline. He joins the Ducks as they look to end a seven-year playoff drought.

“John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup,” Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said. “We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch.”

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The Capitals did not retain any salary, and Carlson does not have a contract extension in place with the Ducks. Carlson had a 10-team no-trade list, but Anaheim was not on it.

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Editor’s Note: The Associated Press contributed to this article.