Sabres Acquire Sam Carrick from Rangers, Bolstering Fourth-Line Depth

The Buffalo Sabres have acquired center Sam Carrick from the New York Rangers in exchange for Buffalo’s third-round pick and Chicago’s sixth-round pick in the upcoming NHL draft, as first reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and confirmed by The Athletic. Carrick was a healthy scratch in the Rangers’ game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night in anticipation of the trade according to sources.

Carrick’s Impact in New York

The 34-year-old Carrick has been a key component of the Rangers’ fourth line since joining the team in 2024. He has registered 10 goals and 30 points in 140 games for the Blueshirts, averaging 11:17 of ice time per game as reported by The Athletic. Carrick boasts a 54.1% faceoff win percentage and has demonstrated strong possession numbers while primarily playing a defensive role .

Why the Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams

The Rangers are undergoing a “retool,” as described by president and general manager Chris Drury , and trading Carrick allows them to acquire draft capital. Carrick himself acknowledged the possibility of a trade given the team’s direction . He is signed through next season with a $1 million average annual value.

For the Sabres, Carrick addresses a need for depth at center. Buffalo has struggled to find a consistent player for their fourth line, rotating between Joshua Dunne and Tyson Kozak, who have a combined 106 games of NHL experience compared to Carrick’s 380 . Carrick represents an immediate upgrade, bringing a veteran presence and a physical edge to the Sabres’ lineup. He has 701 career hits, averaging nearly two per game .

Carrick’s Career Overview

Originally drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2010, Sam Carrick has played for the Leafs, Ducks, Oilers, and Rangers throughout his 10-year NHL career . The 6’0” right-shot center has accumulated 38 goals and 45 assists for 83 points in 380 career NHL games . He also has experience in the playoffs, having been part of the Edmonton Oilers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2024 .

The trade was officially confirmed on March 6, 2026 .