Carter Meyer didn’t expect to hear his name called in the first round of the 2025 QMJHL Draft, but that’s exactly what happened when the Québec Remparts selected the Massachusetts native with the No. 17 overall pick.
At 6 feet and 161 pounds, Meyer is widely regarded as one of the top 2009-born American players. Still, despite strong interest from the QMJHL, the left-shot center remains firmly committed to the U.S. National Team Development Program. He’ll join the NTDP’s U17 squad this fall.
“I’m going to the National Team,” Meyer told PuckPreps. “That’s where I’ve wanted to go since I was a little kid. That’s where I’m going.”
Known for his responsible, two-way game, Meyer prides himself on being more than just a scorer. He initiates plays, breaks them up, and contributes in all three zones, constantly driving possession and supporting his team on both ends of the ice.
His 2024–25 season offered clear proof of that versatility.
Splitting time between the Boston Jr. Eagles 15U and The Rivers School, Meyer racked up 41 goals and 70 points with Rivers, leading the team in scoring and taking a significant step forward in his development.
“For me, it wasn’t just about being the skill guy, it was about being effective in the D zone and making more plays with speed,” he said. “Coming into the zone and being able to make plays off the rush was something I really wanted to get better at. I saw a lot of growth throughout the year.”
That progress was on full display at the NTDP Evaluation Camp, where Meyer and longtime linemates Finn Sears and Sam Pandolfo stood out as one of the most cohesive lines on the ice. Their chemistry, built over nearly a decade of playing together, translated seamlessly to the high-pressure environment.
“We’ve seen the good and the bad days,” Meyer said of his connection with Sears and Pandolfo. “We’ve always been there for each other. The chemistry we have, we know where each other’s going to be. We understand how each of us thinks the game, and that’s what helps the most.”
Both Sears and Pandolfo were also selected in the 2025 QMJHL Draft, albeit in later rounds. But like Meyer, they’re heading to Plymouth, Michigan, this fall to join the NTDP. Meyer, however, was informed of his roster spot earlier than most, an early nod that brought some peace of mind but didn’t change his approach.
“My play didn’t change,” Meyer said. “I still worked just as hard over the next couple of days. Even though I was on the team, it doesn't mean you just let off the gas. You’ve got to keep going.”
That relentless mindset has become a defining trait for Meyer. Even as recognition builds, his focus stays squarely on development.
Fully aware of the demands of an NTDP schedule, Meyer is using the offseason to sharpen his first-step quickness, tighten his defensive reads, and improve his ability to make plays at full speed.
“You have to be a strong skater in the USHL, or it’s going to be tough for you,” he said.
Though not yet allowed to visit NCAA programs, Meyer is already preparing for that next chapter. He’s wrapping up academic requirements and keeping close tabs on top collegiate programs, including Michigan, North Dakota, Minnesota, and several Hockey East schools.