The Buffalo Sabres are bolstering their center depth, acquiring veteran Sam Carrick from the New York Rangers, according to reports. The Rangers will receive Buffalo’s third-round pick and Chicago’s sixth-round pick in this year’s draft in return for Carrick.
Carrick, 34, is in the second year of a three-year, $3 million contract. He’s proven to be a reliable fourth-line center for the Rangers, registering 10 goals and 30 points in 140 games while averaging just over 11 minutes of ice time per game. He boasts a faceoff win percentage of 54.1% and has consistently generated strong possession numbers in a defensive role.
This season, Carrick has maintained a +3 rating despite facing defensive zone assignments over 75% of the time. He’s been a key component of a successful fourth line alongside Adam Edstrom and Matt Rempe, a trio that controls 55.6% of expected goals.
While the Sabres are focused on adding a right-shot defenseman, acquiring a dependable center was also a priority for General Manager Jarmo Kekäläinen. Buffalo has struggled to find consistency on the fourth line this season, rotating between Joshua Dunne and Tyson Kozak, who have a combined 106 games of NHL experience compared to Carrick’s 380.
Carrick represents a clear upgrade over Dunne and Kozak. Dunne has just four career points in 46 games, while Kozak has four points in 39 games this season. Both have also posted weaker possession numbers than Carrick in similar defensive situations.
The Sabres gain a proven player who can contribute immediately and remains under contract through next season, offering flexibility as a 13th forward if needed. What we have is particularly important for a team navigating the salary cap as they prepare to extend contracts for key players Alex Tuch and Zach Benson.
