The New York Rangers have benefitted from acquiring Sam Carrick during the offseason. He'd sign a deal with GM Chris Drury for a total of $3 million over the next three years.
Now, he's having a great year in New York. He was signed to a bargain deal as a bottom-six forward, and while he's not a leading goal scorer he's found a way to make an impact.
This season in 55 games for the Rangers he's scored 15 points(10 g, 5 A). This season if he continues to score at this pace, he could end up scoring a career-high 22 points in the NHL.
But given that he's not primarily an offense-first style of player he's found a way to contribute elsewhere, on the penalty kill and playing a defensive-checking style of game.
He's been one of the Rangers' best players, despite being on the fourth line.
With his recent promotion, he's chosen to remain humble.
«I'm always the same player,» Carrick said. «I try to be at least whether I play eight minutes or 14 minutes. Sometimes you feel a little better out there in that groove, when you are playing a little bit more. The best way to do that is to gain the coach's trust and he'll throw you out there more because he feels that you are going to give your team a good chance to win.»
He's been a coach's dream, and Peter Laviolette has been thrilled to have a player like Carrick on the lineup.
«I think Sam has played really well for us. I think the more he's played, the more confident and comfortable he's gotten in making plays with the puck He plays physical and I've been real happy with his play.»
Like many other NHLers, he's been able to power down as the Four Nations Face-Off reaches its peak.
He remains humble, but hungry as he wants to continue to improve his game.
«I'm feeling more and more comfortable now,» Carrick said. «There is always room for improvement I think. I'm always looking for ways to get better. Obviously it's a long season and I'm looking for each and every game to have a positive contribution to the game. I think for the most part I'm just trying to be consistent.»
Carrick has seen postseason play with the Oilers last season and knows what it takes to get there.
Can he and the Rangers win a wild-card spot in the playoffs?
