Carey's professional journey began when he was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in the 5th round, 135th overall, in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Before stepping into the NHL, he honed his skills at Boston College, where he played for the Eagles in the Hockey East. It was at college where Carey made a significant mark by helping his team capture the national title twice, once as a sophomore and again in his senior year in 2012, where he notably scored the championship-winning goal. This period of his career not only shaped his playing style but also underscored his clutch performance in critical games.
Following college, Carey embarked on his professional career, starting with the Avalanche's AHL affiliate, the Lake Erie Monsters, before making his NHL debut in 2014. Throughout his NHL career, Carey played for multiple teams including the Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, and Boston Bruins. Each stint at these clubs saw him contributing both offensively and defensively, characterized by his first NHL goal with the Capitals and a solid season with the Rangers where he set personal career highs.
Beyond the NHL, Carey's career extended to playing internationally with Djurgårdens IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) during the 2021-22 season. His time in Sweden was challenging, with a struggle to find his previous offensive form, concluding with the team facing relegation. Following his international stint, Carey chose to retire from professional play and return to his roots at Boston College, taking on a role as an assistant coach. This transition marks the next chapter in his hockey career, focusing on developing the next generation of players.
Carey's journey through professional hockey, characterized by various team engagements and a final international cap, illustrates a career filled with perseverance, adaptability, and growth. Now, as he embarks on coaching, his experience from playing at high-pressure points and various team dynamics equips him with a wealth of knowledge to impart to aspiring hockey players at Boston College.
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