Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
During the whirlwind of transactions that characterized the July 1 NHL free-agent period, Sam Carrick’s signing with the New York Rangers didn’t steal the spotlight. Nevertheless, for a team that experienced minimal roster changes after clinching the Presidents’ Trophy, Carrick’s arrival is significant.
As a legitimate contender for the championship, every choice regarding the roster is critical for the Rangers. Each move, whether signing Carrick, trading for Reilly Smith, or promoting Zac Jones to a regular spot, must answer the crucial question: “Does this move bring us closer to winning the Stanley Cup?”
Furthermore, the Rangers are navigating the constraints of the salary cap. With substantial contracts on the horizon for players like Igor Shesterkin, Alexis Lafreniere, and K’Andre Miller before the 2025-26 season, financial considerations weigh heavily on every roster decision.
In the case of Carrick, who has signed a cost-effective three-year, $3 million contract with the Rangers, an important aspect is that he will be taking the place of a well-liked member of the team. This player, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, played a key role in New York’s leadership over the last three seasons.
Despite this transition, head coach Peter Laviolette seems to be on board with Carrick stepping into the role of fourth-line center, replacing Barclay Goodrow this season.
“Losing Barclay is tough, but we have brought in a player who has character, hits hard, fights for his teammates, contributes offensively, and plays solid defense,” Laviolette recently told NHL.com.
The 32-year-old newcomer will earn significantly less per season than Goodrow, who still has three years remaining at $3.64 million annually on his current contract. That sum is considerable. However, he will need to step up after Goodrow was claimed off waivers by the San Jose Sharks in June.
It’s important to note that Goodrow played a vital role in the Rangers’ impressive penalty kill, earning admiration from teammates and significantly raising his game during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he netted six goals in 16 postseason games last spring.
“That’s a friend for life, someone you expected to be back in the lineup with again,” said Rangers forward Chris Kreider during the Shoulder Check Showcase charity event focused on mental health awareness in July.
Related: Rangers veterans mourn the departure of ‘friend for life’ Barclay Goodrow
New Rangers center Sam Carrick faces big shoes to fill
Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
While Carrick may lack the championship experience that Goodrow possesses, he is a dependable bottom-six player who can contribute to the penalty kill. His career face-off winning percentage stands at 50.7, including 51.0 percent with the Anaheim Ducks over 61 games last season and an impressive 63.1 percent in 16 games following his trade to the Edmonton Oilers.
As Laviolette mentioned, Carrick is also known for his physical play. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 200 pounds, he accumulated a career-high 102 penalty minutes last season, ranking 12th in the NHL. A fourth line featuring Carrick, Matt Rempe, and Jimmy Vesey should give the Rangers a crucial physical edge this season.
“He brings grit, toughness, and a competitive edge,” Laviolette added.
“There are some offs and a bit of physicality,” remarked Laviolette.
Carrick participated in 10 playoff matches for the Oilers this past spring, marking the first playoff experience of his career, including Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers. He succeeded in eight out of 12 face-offs, registered two hits, and accrued 12 penalty minutes towards the end of the 4-1 loss.
Despite being celebrated predominantly for his tough style of play, Carrick managed to score 11 goals while with the Ducks in the 2021-22 season, followed by another 10 last year.
The Rangers’ lineup will see significant impact with his inclusion. He and Smith are projected to be the sole new forwards in the top 12 this season unless a young player like Brennan Othmann makes a strong case for a roster spot during training camp. It’s clear that Carrick aims to contribute positively and maintain the successful momentum that the Rangers have established.
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Sam Carrick: Filling Big Skates as New York Rangers’ Fourth-Line Center
Who is Sam Carrick?
Sam Carrick is a professional ice hockey player currently making a name for himself as the fourth-line center for the New York Rangers. Drafted in the 5th round of the 2010 NHL Draft, Carrick has developed a reputation as a reliable, hardworking player known for his two-way game and strong physical presence on the ice.
Why the Fourth-Line Center Role Matters
The fourth-line center is often considered the unsung hero of an ice hockey team. While they may not always score the most goals or grab the biggest headlines, their contributions are crucial for team success. Here’s why:
- Defensive Responsibilities: Fourth-line centers are typically tasked with playing against the opposing team’s top lines, making defensive plays critical.
- Energy Boost: They provide momentum and energy shifts, often igniting the crowd and bringing life to the bench.
- Penalty Killing: Many fourth-line players are crucial to the penalty kill unit, helping to protect leads and minimize scoring opportunities for opponents.
Sam Carrick’s Skill Set
Sam Carrick possesses a diverse skill set that makes him an ideal candidate for the fourth-line center position:
- Faceoff Proficiency: Carrick excels in faceoff situations, winning a high percentage of draws that allows his team to maintain puck possession.
- Physical Play: Known for his toughness, Carrick isn’t afraid to engage in battles along the boards, making him a valuable asset during tight games.
- Speed and Agility: His ability to skate quickly and maneuver effectively allows Carrick to create space and opportunities for his teammates.
Impact on the New York Rangers
As Carrick steps into the fourth-line center role for the New York Rangers, his impact is already being felt. The team has undergone significant changes, and filling this position with a player of Carrick’s caliber is crucial.
Statistical Overview
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 45 | 6 | 5 | 11 | +4 |
| 2021-2022 | 48 | 8 | 7 | 15 | +6 |
| 2022-2023 | 50 | 5 | 10 | 15 | +3 |
Filling Big Skates: What It Means for Carrick
Filling big skates is no easy task, especially in a franchise with a storied history like the New York Rangers. Carrick’s ability to step up to the challenge is a testament to his determination and work ethic.
Challenges in the Role
Stepping into a role that requires physicality and strategic thinking, Carrick faces several challenges:
- High Expectations: Playing in New York comes with immense pressure; fans and analysts expect consistent performance.
- Team Dynamics: Integrating into an established lineup can be challenging, especially when building chemistry with linemates.
- Adapting to Play Styles: Each team has its unique play style, and Carrick must quickly adapt to the Rangers’ system.
Benefits of Having Carrick on the Fourth Line
Sam Carrick brings several benefits to the Rangers’ fourth line that enhance overall team performance:
- Depth Scoring: Carrick’s ability to contribute offensively ensures that the Rangers have scoring threats across all four lines.
- Defensive Stability: His defensive acumen helps protect leads in close games, allowing more offensive-minded players to take risks.
- Veteran Presence: Carrick’s experience and leadership can be invaluable to younger players on the team.
First-Hand Experience: Teammate Insights
Teammates have shared their thoughts on Carrick’s impact:
“Sam brings a level of intensity and determination that uplifts our whole line. He’s not just a player; he’s a leader on and off the ice.” - Rangers Forward
Case Studies: Successful Fourth-Line Centers
To understand the potential of Sam Carrick, let’s look at a few successful fourth-line centers in the NHL:
| Player | Team | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Martin | New York Islanders | Key player in playoff runs, known for physical play. |
| Ryan Reaves | Vegas Golden Knights | Stanley Cup finalist, brings toughness and experience. |
| Trevor Lewis | Los Angeles Kings | Two-time Stanley Cup Champion, known for defensive skills. |
Practical Tips for Carrick as Fourth-Line Center
For Sam Carrick to maximize his impact as the fourth-line center, here are some practical tips:
- Focus on Conditioning: Maintaining peak physical condition will enable him to withstand the rigors of a demanding NHL season.
- Enhance Communication: Strengthening communication with linemates will promote better teamwork and on-ice synergy.
- Watch Game Film: Studying game footage can help him identify areas for improvement and adapt to opposing teams’ strategies.
The Future of Sam Carrick with the Rangers
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Sam Carrick to see how he develops as the New York Rangers’ fourth-line center. The expectations are high, but with the right mindset and support, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the team’s depth and success.
For more insights into Sam Carrick’s performance, check out this video: Sam Carrick: Filling Big Skates as New York Rangers’ Fourth-Line Center.
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