Penguins Sign First-Round Pick Kindel to Entry-Level Deal

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed their 2025 first-round draft pick, forward Ben Kindel, to a three-year entry-level contract. Kindel, an 18-year-old center from the Calgary Hitmen, had an outstanding 2024-25 season with 35 goals, 64 assists, and 99 points over 65 games, setting a franchise record with a 23-game point streak. He also led the Hitmen in playoff scoring and earned a spot on the WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team. Kindel represented Team Canada last season, winning gold at the World Under-18 Championship and the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. While eligible to play in the NHL next season, per the NHL-CHL agreement, Kindel will likely start the 2025-26 season with the Calgary Hitmen, with his contract sliding until he turns professional full-time. Penguins GM Kyle Dubas and Calgary Hitmen coach Paul McFarland have praised Kindel's elite playmaking, competitiveness, and consistent performance.