Penguins Intriguing Prospect Howe Out After ACL Surgery

Next season could mark the arrival of several Pittsburgh Penguins prospects in the NHL, but at least one will be delayed. Forward Tanner Howe will spend months recovering from reconstructive ACL surgery on his right knee, the team announced Thursday.

The surgery, performed by team head physician Dharmesh Vyas on Wednesday, will require an expected recovery time of nine months. That would mean missing the first half or so of the upcoming season.

Tanner Howe, 19, was a second-round draft pick by the Penguins in 2024. He made an immediate impact at the team’s development/prospect camp last summer for his mix of skill and pest-like qualities.

He just split his fourth junior season between the Calgary Hitmen and the Regina Pats in the Western Hockey League. In 47 games combined, he had 18 goals, 46 points. He also was part of Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship.

He signed with the Penguins last July after development camp and is expected to turn pro for the coming season.