Heading into the 2023-24 NHL season, the expectations weren’t high for Jeff Carter as he entered the final year of his deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and likely his career.
When calendars turn to 2024, the Penguins oldest player will turn 39, but he likely won’t be taken out of the lineup any time soon.
Carter potted his fourth goal of the season in a 4-2 win over the St. Louis Blues, but has been making his goals count as three of them have been game winners.
“It’s great to see him scoring goals like that,” forward Drew O’Connor said. “He brings so much to the team, it’s great to have him.”
Carter's three game winners are good to lead the Penguins through 34 games of the season.
All four of his tallies have come after head coach Mike Sullivan healthy scratched Carter for a handful of games in November.
According to Sullivan, Carter’s play since returning to the lineup has been ‘invaluable’ in more ways than just clutch goals.
“His demeanor is great for our team from a leadership standpoint,” Sullivan said. “He doesn’t get rattled. If we lose momentum or get on our heels, he has such a calm demeanor, and he just knows how to play.”
Sullivan went on to list off all of the things that Carter has been able to bring to the table for the Penguins ever since returning from his stint in the press box.
In Carter’s 17 games since returning to the lineup full time, he’s been an important piece for the Penguins.
Four goals and an assist plus winning 62% of faceoffs, despite being a full-time winger, has left it’s mark.
Sullivan sees more than just stats and numbers, too.
“Since he’s come back in the lineup, I think he’s been a real important player for us,” Sullivan said. “A lot of what he does probably goes unnoticed because it doesn’t end up on the scoresheet. He does so many of the little things that help us win.”
Carter might still not be in the greatest light with the fan base, but he’s slowly been earning his role in the lineup and gaining the respect of the Penguins faithful, once again.
The year 2024 will be important for the possible future Hall of Famer, and at this moment, he’s deserving of his spot.
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