A former sixth round pick, Sanderson has flown under many radars since his draft year. The soon to be 19 year-old spent the previous two seasons skating in the USHL, where he posted 22 goals and 23 assists in 102 games. His 17 goals and 17 assists last year in 54 games marked a strong offensive step forward, but his game is not just built on offense.

Pittsburgh’s sixth rounder plays a consistent, solid defensive game. He does not post high point totals, but his physicality is something that could be of interest to NHL teams in the future.

Selected 169th overall, Carter Sanderson is now a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

According to Instat, Sanderson was in the 99th percentile in hits, 90th in scoring chances, puck battles won, and net expected goals percentage.

The read on Sanderson is that of a multi-cat, bottom six player, and given the period of change that will be coming to the Penguins as their generational talent retires, he would be a wise stash in deeper leagues. If your league has settings that value shots, hits and penalties, the opportunity that is ahead of Sanderson may be of interest even if the offensive ceiling is not very high.

He is set to join the WHL in the upcoming season, with an NCAA commitment to the University of North Dakota in 2027-2028. He is a low risk gamble with a low offensive ceiling, but a potential bottom six role ahead of him.