John Carlson Leaving Ducks in Free Agency, Where’s He Headed?

According to a report by Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, John Carlson is headed to free agency. He will test the market, as per his agent, Rick Curran, who has informed Anaheim Ducks GM Pat Verbeek that Carlson likely won’t return. LeBrun adds, “Both sides talked about a potential extension, but Carlson is moving on.”

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“I’ve had good discussions with Pat,” Curran told The Athletic on Tuesday. “I told him how much John enjoyed his time in Anaheim. But his preference is to return and play in the East, closer to family and the familiarity with it. Pat was naturally disappointed but completely understood.”

Where Will Carlson Land as a UFA?

While Carlson is now a 36-year-old veteran defenseman, he’s still quite productive. There is reportedly going to be a big market for a player with his resume and someone who can quarterback a power play and still score 60 points in 71 games. LeBrun notes, “At least four or five teams in the East will be in on him.”

It was also said that Carlson spoke with the Washington Capitals before the trade deadline in March about a two-year extension worth $9 million per season. The Caps were not in a good place when they traded him, but they may look at bringing him back. If not, LeBrun writes, “My guess is there’s a two-year deal around $10 million per year waiting for Carlson on the July 1 open market, if not more.”

The one team LeBrun suggested keeping an eye on is the Tampa Bay Lightning. It is likely they lose Darryn Raddysh to free agency and will get a much larger deal to a team desperate for an offensive defenseman who had a career year. If the Lightning need to replace him, Carlson fits.

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