Carter Sanderson, a forward recently selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the sixth round of the 2025 NHL Draft, has made history as the first South Dakotan ever to be drafted into the NHL. Sanderson's journey included calls from the Penguins, culminating in the moment he was picked at 169th overall. Despite modest rookie numbers in the USHL, where he scored five goals and assisted on six in 48 games, his coach praised his hockey sense and the impact he made on the ice. Sanderson's upcoming season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks will be crucial as he aims to build on his performance and develop further before joining the University of North Dakota.

Pittsburgh Penguins' GM Kyle Dubas recently made a bold move by waiving goaltender Tristan Jarry. This decision comes after a disappointing season and reflects Dubas's commitment to both immediate improvements and future planning for the franchise. Jarry, who was extended with a five-year contract last summer, has not performed as expected, prompting Dubas to pivot toward rookie Joel Blomqvist.

Dubas's strategy appears to be a 'two-window' approach aimed at maintaining competitiveness while rebuilding. After last season's playoff miss, Dubas traded key players like Jake Guentzel, acquiring prospects and draft picks as he prepares for the future. His focus on younger assets indicates a short-term competitive window of one to two years while also ensuring long-term stability post-Sidney Crosby.