It appears that the New York Rangers organization along with the fan base is finally recognizing the work that Rangers forward Sam Carrick is doing for the team.
His gritty style and constant energy have had a positive impact on the Rangers especially since the team has been going through some of its toughest moments in its recent history.
Sam Carrick signed a three-year deal with Rangers last summer
Over the past three games, he has scored two big goals which include an overtime game winner which now has many people in Madison Square Garden and on the bench keeping watch on Carrick in how he plays.
«It feels good to help the team in any way I can,» Carrick said. «For me early on in the season, the goals weren't coming. I was more focused on helping the team in other ways whether it's faceoffs, penalty kill or being reliable defensively. Obviously, it helps to help offensively as well. I'm always looking to do that no matter the game.» - Sam Carrick New York Rangers
Laviolette's moves paid off with Carrick
One person in particular who has taken notice his head coach Peter Laviolette as he has enjoyed watching Carrick's game unfold this season. He teamed Carrick up with Adam Edstrom which has paid dividends for the Rangers as they have both played alongside one another for the entire season.
It's been great,» Carrick said about playing with Edström. «It has been good for me. What works really well for us is him having the speed that he has and me being a center, trying to find him flying off of the wing. He's had lots of breakaways this year whether it's a high flip from an area or hitting him with speed going wide. That seems to be working well, it will be something I continue to do.» - Peter Laviolette Rangers Head Coach
Carrick also spoke about his style of play and how adding a little toughness to the game certainly can go a long way for the Rangers and his line.
«Providing that little bit of grit and toughness and the kind of things that you need throughout a long regular season and especially in the playoffs when the games get a lot more physical,» Carrick said on what he provides. «You need that throughout your lineup.» - Sam Carrick New York Rangers
The Rangers next game will be at home at Madison Square Garden as the Columbus Blue Jackets will come into town to take on the re-energized Rangers. The game will take place on Saturday January 18th and game time will be 7:00 PM eastern.