By Steve Fitzsimmons, Hockey Now

This year’s NHL Draft has a significant number of players jostling for a spot in the first round of the draft. One of those intriguing candidates to watch will be Guelph Storm LW Carter Sandlak. He had a modest rookie season that saw him notch seven goals and 15 points in 61 games, but the London, Ont.-native carved out a spot as a fan favorite for his honest work ethic and willingness to pay the price and get involved physically, something that always catches the attention of NHL scouts.

Sandlak has a built-in NHL scouting system in his own household, with his dad being former NHL player Jim Sandlak, who is currently a member of the Anaheim Ducks Scouting Staff.
Sandlak admits that dad’s advice is very valuable to have.

“He tells me lots of different things as a normal parent would, but he knows what it takes to be in the NHL and he tries to pass it onto me. He tells me that I’ve got to work hard every day at the rink, both on and off the ice. He knows more than the average hockey parent would know. It helps having him around and telling me different things to do.”

Bill Granger, the color commentator for Guelph Storm broadcasts on Rogers TV, feels the offensive side of Sandlak’s game is about to emerge and that he could become a difference-maker as early as this season for the team.

“His sophomore year could be a big breakout season for him, on his way to being a major star in the OHL. Sandlak can skate and shoot with the best of the OHL’s sophomore class. He has good size and brings a physical presence to the ice.”

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