LOS ANGELES — Jeff Carter’s official introduction to the NHL on Oct. 5, 2005 featured the Philadelphia Flyers rookie playing against an Original Six opponent, the New York Rangers, and a spot on a line with the Peter Forsberg and Simon Gagne.



That would be Forsberg, a future Hall of Famer, and Gagne, who would go on to score a career-high 47 goals that season.



“It lasted about four shifts,” Carter told The Athletic on Wednesday, looking amused, as he recounted his NHL debut.



“And then, I was right down on the fourth line. Actually, it was one of the first times that I played on the wing. I was always the centerman growing up, so it was new to me … Obviously, a big moment in my career.



“Your first one … but long time ago.”



Fourteen years later, the two-time Stanley Cup champion has come full circle. At 34, Carter playing on the wing again, and the move may end up prolonging...