Penguins Sign First-Rounder to Entry-Level Contract

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.