Jason Lewis: The Evolution of Jeff Carter as an LA Kings Center

Carter was an under appreciated player in his final years in Philly ... few players possess the release that he has on that wrist shot, and the combo of size and speed is equally rare. Additionally, by the end of his tenure in Philly he had transformed into a pretty effective defensive player. He had also become pretty good in the dot.

A key component in understanding his final couple of years in Philly was the fact that he was carrying water for the defensively deficient Briere and Giroux (who has improved since then). So, it really is not surprising that he has done well in LA, he was always a very good player with exceptional physical tools.

That being said, turning him into Voracek and Couturier was a pretty impressive deal in the end.

Carter was an under appreciated player in his final years in Philly ... few players possess the release that he has on that wrist shot, and the combo of size and speed is equally rare. Additionally, by the end of his tenure in Philly he had transformed into a pretty effective defensive player. He had also become pretty good in the dot.

A key component in understanding his final couple of years in Philly was the fact that he was carrying water for the defensively deficient Briere and Giroux (who has improved since then). So, it really is not surprising that he has done well in LA, he was always a very good player with exceptional physical tools.

That being said, turning him into Voracek and Couturier was a pretty impressive deal in the end.
- gollum

A hockey trade that really worked out for everyone involved when you consider it.

Tell that to Lumbus...

Tell that to Lumbus...
- Stu17

LoL. They have managed just fine.

Have they? Columbus got rubbed raw on both deals. Carter should buy them a puppy or something as an apology.

Have they? Columbus got rubbed raw on both deals. Carter should buy them a puppy or something as an apology.
- coffee junkie

theyre still better than the flyers

Have they? Columbus got rubbed raw on both deals. Carter should buy them a puppy or something as an apology.
- coffee junkie

Meh. I buy that on the Flyers end of the deal. But on the Kings' end...

Carter--->Johnson/1st (Dano)--->Dano to Saad

Meh. I buy that on the Flyers end of the deal. But on the Kings' end...

Carter--->Johnson/1st (Dano)--->Dano to Saad
- Only_A_Ladd

Saad is good, but he's not carter and he'll definitely miss his linemates in Chicago.

Saad is good, but he's not carter and he'll definitely miss his linemates in Chicago.
- Stu17

The poster I responded to said CBus was "rubbed raw" on both deals. With the Flyers, with the benefit of today's perspective, they certainly did (voracek, couturier). But they did turn Carter into Johnson and Saad (well, with some add ons). No doubt: I'd take Carter everyday of the week, but it isn't as lopsided as the Flyers end of the deals. I'm really happy we have Carter for many years to come. Dude came better than advertised.

He quietly kicks ass for the Kings and team Canada when called upon

Thanks for the comprehensive, interesting article...!!!
Along with his talent... I've always been impressed with Jeff Carter's steady, consistent professionalism and work ethic (much appreciated qualities, especially given the Kings' challenges last season).

Interesting timing on the Jeff Carter piece given the status of Voynov. DL traded Johnson with Voynov waiting in the AHL already having proven he was ready to play. I remember thinking what a good move it was given the JJ had all the tools but didn't seem to have the head to be a top D-man in the Kings style and we clearly needed more offense. I was concerned about the massive contract Carter brought with him (similar to Richards which didn't work out so well) but boy has his play been well worth that contract. Not knowing his game very well pre-Kings (other than knowing he was a scorer) his game with the Kings was very impressive right away. His speed stood out immediately. Obviously his shot as well. But the most impressive and unexpected thing was his D play, he was backchecking hard and consistently and before long DS trusted him enough to put him on the PK, too. Given his reputation coming out of Philly, and worse in Columbus, I think you're right Jason, best trade by DL for sure. He's been a fantastic all around player for the Kings. One thing I wonder, how much does having Anze as the 1C help Carter? Will be interesting to see that 70s line potentially feasting this year as teams try to shutdown Anze/Gabi/Lucic.