Switching to defense has not hampered his offensive ability, which was on full display last season, when he had 45 points (12 goals, 33 assists) in 51 games with Sault Ste. Marie of the Ontario Hockey League.
"I'm a smooth player with the puck, my skating is smooth and I read the game very well," Sandin said. "That's the best part of my game right now, how I read the game. My passing ability as well is a strength. I'm not the biggest guy (5-foot-11, 186 pounds), but I feel like I have the assets being a smaller guy to play in the best League in the world."
Sandin is eligible to return to the OHL this season, but could also play professionally in Sweden or with Calder Cup champion Toronto of the AHL. Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas said that decision will not be made until September, and Sandin will participate in the World Junior Summer Showcase with Sweden in Kamloops, British Columbia, beginning July 28.
In the meantime, Sandin's primary focus will be adding muscle and improving his speed.
"Adding some strength, I think all the players who got drafted this year want to add a couple of pounds," Sandin said. "Also my speed, making sure I can get up to top speed a little quicker, that's something we've been working on at development camp. … If I can keep improving that and get my speed going, I think I'll be ready soon."