Jeff Carter has never been a healthy scratch in the NHL, but is still showing full support for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

For the first time in his 19-year career, Jeff Carter was healthy scratched when the Pittsburgh Penguins took on the San Jose Sharks.

In just one game out of the lineup, the Penguins recorded 10 goals and got some good production from the fourth line, where Carter started the 2023-24 season.

Fans of the team have been hollering for Carter to be taken out of the lineup for about a full year now, and they finally got their wish.

It wasn’t an easy decision for head coach Mike Sullivan, but he is looking to put the best team on the ice each and every night.

“They’re never easy conversations, regardless of who the player is,” Sullivan said. “Unfortunately, that’s part of the job.”

Sullivan said that Carter is taking the scratch really well and understands the situation.

“I think he’s handled it unbelievably well,” Sullivan said. “He’s a great pro. He totally gets it.”

Carter echoed that sentiment of understanding and despite it being an unusual position for him.

“It’s definitely a different feeling,” Carter said. “First time in my career, but I understand it. Whatever Sully decides to do with the lineup, we’re all on board.”

Being out of the Penguins lineup likely won’t last too long, as Carter could still have his uses, but he’s looking forward to earning his way back and being a helping hand for his teammates.

“If there’s stuff that I see, I can try to help them out here and there,” Carter said. “I still got to bring something to the table, even if you’re not in the lineup.”

Despite not being in the lineup, Carter is still bringing a positive energy to the group and being the good ‘pro’ Sullivan talked about.

“I’m not going to come in and mope around and be an old grumpy guy,” Carter said. “Have to come in and have fun, try and keep it light in the room. Keep the boys going.”

We’ll see how long Carter is out of the lineup, it’s very much possible he returns in Los Angeles against the Kings, given the history he has with that team.

The 2023-24 season could be Carter’s final run in the NHL and likely his last time playing in the city he won a pair of Stanley Cups with.

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