Carrick is a prized NHL asset: a right-shot defenseman who skates swiftly and has strong offensive skills. He is not physically imposing (5-foot-11, 193 pounds) but his versatility and mobility help him overcome that.

A native of Orland Park, Ill., and product of USA Hockey's National Team Development program, Carrick was selected by the Washington Capitals in the fifth round (No. 137) of the 2012 NHL Draft. Carrick then spent the 2012-13 season in the Ontario Hockey League with Plymouth before turning pro.

During his time with the Capitals organization, Carrick shuttled between Washington and its American Hockey League affiliate, Hershey. He made his NHL debut Oct. 1, 2013, against the Chicago Blackhawks and scored a goal in his second game two days later against the Calgary Flames. He finished with a goal and six points in 34 games.

He spent the 2014-15 season with Hershey, scoring eight goals and 42 points in 73 games. Still, earning a regular spot with the Capitals, who had depth on defense, proved difficult, and on Feb. 28, 2016, Washington traded him, Brooks Laich and a 2016 second-round draft pick to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Daniel Winnik and a 2016 fifth-round pick.

Carrick finished that regular-season with the Maple Leafs, playing 16 games, then joined their AHL affiliate in Toronto for its five remaining regular-season games and playoff run. He had 18 points in 15 AHL postseason games, finishing as the league's top playoff scorer.

Carrick won a gold medal with the United States at the 2012 Under-18 World Championship and also represented his country at the 2014 World Junior Championship.