When considering New York Rangers forwards Sam Carrick, Adam Edstrom, and Matt Rempe, goal-scoring may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the Rangers’ fourth line has netted four goals in the last three games, contributing to a 2-0-1 record during that stretch.
In fact, these fourth-liners accounted for more than half of New York’s goals (four out of seven) over that span. On Tuesday, Carrick and Edstrom both scored in a 3-2 overtime defeat against the Colorado Avalanche. Carrick’s goal, which was scored while on the penalty kill, nearly secured a win for the Rangers, but they allowed the tying goal with 1:13 left in the third period and conceded Devon Toews’ goal with just 37 seconds remaining in overtime.
Nonetheless, the contributions from this line, especially considering their limited ice time, could serve as a significant boost in a season that has experienced several setbacks.
During their six minutes of ice time together at even strength, Edstrom, Carrick, and Rempe maintained strong possession. Carrick showcased his impressive form by seizing a loose puck during a penalty kill, speeding off on a breakaway, and scoring against Colorado goalie Mackenzie Blackwood to tie the game at 1-1 in the first period.
In the second period, Rempe’s diligent efforts along the boards paid off when Carrick retrieved another loose puck in their defensive zone. He brought the puck up the ice and set up Edstrom, who, at 6-foot-7 and 234 pounds, finished the breakaway to give the Rangers a 2-1 lead that nearly held.
