Penguins Sign First-Rounder to Entry-Level Contract

Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Ben Kindel
Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Ben Kindel: Photo by Dan Kingerski. All rights reserved

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Tuesday that they have signed forward Ben Kindel, their top pick in last month’s draft, to a three-year entry-level contract.

Kindel, who just participated in the team’s development camp, was drafted 11th overall, the first of the Penguins’ three first-round picks and one of 13 picks overall in this year’s draft.

The deal will kick in when he turns pro. His only options for 2025-26 are to play in the NHL or be sent back to his junior team, the Calgary Hitmen.

Last season, Kindel was second on the team with 35 goals, first with 64 assists for the the Hitman, and his 99 points ranked seventh in the Western Hockey League. He set a team record with a 23-game point streak. He has also played in age-division tournaments for Team Canada.

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Robert Shoemaker
Robert Shoemaker
1 month ago

They picked him to replace Yager.

Espo33
Espo33
1 month ago

Meaning what?

Robert Shoemaker
Robert Shoemaker
1 month ago
Reply to  Espo33

Similar player. Traded Yager out, got Kindel, who has similar skills to replace him.

Rich81
Rich81
1 month ago

Tampa traded Howard to Edmonton for O’Reilly- queue the trade rumors – Howard/Savoie as part of a trade.

Robert Shoemaker
Robert Shoemaker
1 month ago
Reply to  Rich81

That stinks 😕