Tampa Bay Lightning
· 2026-06-23
The Tampa Bay Lightning are linked to veteran defenseman John Carlson as a potential replacement for Darren Raddysh.
Carlson plans to leave the Anaheim Ducks and is testing the free agent market, with the Lightning as a possible destination.
The defenseman posted six points in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, all on assists, and had 60 points in 71 games during the regular season.
Carlson's experience and skillset make him an attractive option for the Lightning, who are looking to bolster their backend after trading Raddysh to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
He won a Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018 and has a strong track record of production.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman believes Carlson will likely sign with the Lightning on a short-term deal for big dollars, citing the team's need for a veteran defenseman.
The Lightning made the postseason before losing to the Montreal Canadiens, and adding Carlson could help them make a deeper run next season.
Carlson spent the bulk of his career with the Capitals, registering 14 goals and 46 assists for 60 points in 71 games last season.
The Ducks made the Stanley Cup Playoffs before losing to the Vegas Golden Knights, and Carlson's departure could be a significant blow to their lineup.
The Lightning are examining both the trade market and the free agent pool to find a replacement for Raddysh, with BriseBois looking to make a move in the next seven-to-ten days.
Carlson's potential signing would be a significant addition to the Lightning's roster, and could help them compete for a Stanley Cup championship next season.
The team's fans are eagerly awaiting news on the free agent market, and the potential addition of Carlson would be a major boost to their hopes for next season.