Finishing third in total points and tied for first in goals scored, Carter Morris had himself a very successful run of games in this attack. He excelled at timing his runs into space and showed great instincts around the net, using bursts of speed to create separation at the right time and opening up for shooting chances. He followed up plays and crashed the net at the right time, cleaning up plays and showing nice hand-eye coordination, quick hands, and strong finishing capabilities in tight. He wasn’t just effective as a target man though, he controlled and possessed the puck well as he protected the puck and dictated the tempo by slowing the game down and taking stock of the options around the zone. He turned on the jets at times and was able to maneuver his way through defenders and earn some nice high danger chances for himself. He was a sound defensive presence as well and was able to remain disciplined and use his speed and physicality to force play to the outside and keep the center lane locked down.

The high pressure Carter Morris provided on the forecheck led to a number of turnovers, ones that yielded some quality scoring opportunities. His hustle, intelligent reads, and quick decision making were some trademark pieces to his game. He got on the puck often and was capable of providing a spark to the offense when it was on his stick, stickhandling the puck through traffic and setting himself up for shots in and around the slot. He timed short bursts of speed well to break through defensive lines and provide himself with the separation needed to get shots away. Those bursts of speed were also used when he was out of possession to propel him into the blind spots of the defense where he could receive the puck in behind and quickly get a chance off in tight. He showed great composure in and around the net and was able to convert on a number of opportunities in tight, showcasing a deft finishing touch. He was able to put himself in a position where he could make a defensive or offensive contribution seemingly every play, the game just looked easy for him at times. Overall, I really liked Morris’ game and it’s clear he is capable of playing a crucial role in this Sabres team.