Carter Meyer Follows Father's Path Toward NHL Center Role

Carter Meyer finished tied for second in NTDP U-17 scoring despite playing 10 fewer games than leader Brayden Willis.

Family Legacy Shapes Early Development

Freddy Meyer joined the NTDP in 1997, one year after the program began, giving his son a direct link to its origins. Carter Meyer absorbed stories of tougher travel and limited resources from his father while training in the modern NTDP environment. The contrast highlights how the program evolved from early struggles into a gold-medal factory that produced Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel and Jack Hughes. Greg Moore, NTDP U-17 coach, noted Meyer’s hockey IQ and puck skills stood out immediately upon arrival. Meyer split the season between U-17 and U-18 squads yet still posted scoring totals that placed him among the team leaders. His ability to extend plays under pressure became the foundation for the two-way identity Moore praised throughout the year.

Performance Metrics Reveal Two-Way Strengths

Meyer earned time on the penalty kill, power play and in five-on-five situations during his U-18 call-ups. He also handled key faceoffs, a role that grew as the season progressed. The numerical edge of three points behind Willis despite fewer games underscored efficient production across limited minutes. Moore credited Meyer’s defensive instincts and vision for allowing him to contribute in all situations without sacrificing offensive output. This balance directly addressed the next developmental step Moore identified: learning game management inside a full team system. The extra year at the NTDP before the move to major junior provided the exact window needed for that refinement.

Commitment to Boston University Locks in Long-Term Path

Meyer committed to Boston University, following both parents and an older brother who had already chosen the Terriers. The decision also reflected exposure to coach Jay Pandolfo through teammate Sam Pandolfo and direct observation of Macklin Celebrini’s Hobey Baker-winning season. Meyer cited the coaching staff’s track record of developing centers as the decisive factor alongside family tradition. His planned arrival in 2028-29 aligns with the 2026-27 season he will spend with the Quebec Remparts after departing the NTDP. That QMJHL experience is expected to accelerate his transition to NCAA competition and eventual NHL readiness.

Meyer’s focus remains fixed on modeling Celebrini’s 200-foot game while adding the physical maturity that major junior competition demands.