Former Philadelphia Flyers' Jeff Carter speaks, hopeful of fresh start with Columbus Blue Jackets
Without a doubt, former Philadelphia Flyers' centre player, Jeff Carter, was shocked and startled when the team decided to trade him off to Columbus Blue Jackets in a sudden and surprising move which also included the team's captain, Mike Richards.
Both players were known as a dynamic duo and elite attacking force in Philadelphia's line-up and suddenly had to part ways as Richards was sent to Los Angeles Kings.
“It’s been a tough couple of days”, Carter finally said after remaining quite during the trade. “I spent six years in Philadelphia. I think so highly of the organization. It was a real shot to me”.
Columbus was certainly excited to have acquired Carter in such an unexpected way.
The 26-year old from London, Ontario, Canada, had six wonderful seasons with Philadelphia after being drafted as an 11th overall pick in the 2003 National Hockey League (NHL) Entry Draft.
He recorded 66 points, 36 goals and 30 assists, last season in a total of 80 played games, with a plus-minus rating of 27. Carter also recorded two points, a goal and an assist, in six playoff games.
After the dust settled, Carter has overcome his shock and disappointment and changed it into confidence and hope.
“My decision to not talk had absolutely nothing to do with being traded to Columbus. I know it’s a team that has struggled in the past, but there’s a great future there, a lot of young players. I’m excited to be there”, Carter said after opening up a couple
of days after the trade.
For the young centre, it will certainly be a start and opening to lead a weak team to success and be recognised as the one doing it.
"I'm excited to go to Columbus and have a fresh start and a new opportunity there", Carter said.
Columbus Blue Jackets can stop worrying about game attendance and popularity now, since they have a well-rounded player joining the line-up.
It was certainly noticed after the upcoming season ticket sales began to sell like hot cakes and forums began pouring with discussion about the trade which is not only good for Carter, but for Blue Jackets as well.
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