The former Capitals defenseman is reportedly interested in heading back East.
The Washington Capitals could see John Carlson return to the Eastern Conference this coming season, as the former D.C. blueliner could choose to head back closer to home come free agency.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman said on 32 Thoughts that "there's some thought (Carlson) might want to go back East." He's also officially back in the DMV and was visiting Logan Thompson on Saturday, as Thompson posted on Instagram.
Carlson is a pending unrestricted free agent.
Washington traded the 36-year-old blueliner to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline in exchange for draft picks, including the No. 18 selection in the upcoming draft.
Through 16 games with the Ducks following the trade, Carlson put up four goals and 10 assists for 14 points, along with a minus-2 rating, before putting up six assists in 12 playoff games.
Per The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, the Ducks are interested in negotiating a new contract, but he needs more time to decide what he wants to do. LeBrun also reported that, before his trade from Washington, he'd been in talks with the Capitals about a two-year extension that paid $9 million per season.
Given Carlson's ties to the DMV, it wouldn't be surprising to see him head back to the East, and surely, there will be a lot of teams hoping to acquire his services. Though a veteran, he's still a No. 1 defenseman who can spark a power play, bring offense to the blue line and log heavy minutes.
Ultimately, though, a D.C. reunion appears unlikely, even though the team will be in need of pursuing a right-handed defenseman with Rasmus Sandin out long-term.