Sidney Crosby’s Penguins sign top WHL prospect to entry-level deal after 99-point campaign

The Pittsburgh Penguins have taken an important step toward shaping their future by signing Ben Kindel, their top pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 18-year-old forward becomes the latest addition to a franchise that’s actively preparing for life beyond the Sidney Crosby era—although the captain remains central to their identity.

Kindel, selected 11th overall, put together a breakout campaign in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Calgary Hitmen, finishing the season with 35 goals, 64 assists, and 99 points across 65 regular-season games. He also registered 15 points in 11 playoff contests, helping Calgary reach the second round before being eliminated in seven games.

The young forward was awarded East Division First-Team All-Star honors and quickly emerged as one of the most complete offensive players available in this year’s draft. His entry-level deal was announced Tuesday by Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas, who emphasized the club’s confidence in Kindel’s long-term upside.

Is Ben Kindel NHL-ready or headed back to juniors?

According to Steven Ellis, NHL Draft expert from Daily Faceoff, Kindel’s name rose rapidly in public scouting circles throughout the year: “Kindel has been one of the WHL’s hottest prospects this season… He’s equally good as a shooter and a playmaker and is the driving force of Calgary’s attack.”

While Kindel’s hockey IQ, vision, and elite puck skills have earned praise, scouts also note areas for improvement: “Below-average skating and a lack of a physical edge knock him down a few pegs,” Ellis added, though he made it clear that Kindel’s offensive instincts make him a standout.

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The Penguins will evaluate Kindel closely during training camp. There’s a possibility he could make the NHL roster in his first year, although the club might opt to return him to Calgary for further development.

Kindel adds to Canada’s golden generation

Kindel has already experienced success on the international stage. He was part of Canada’s gold-medal winning teams at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship, showing that he can deliver on the biggest stages.

While Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang continue to anchor the Penguins’ present, the signing of Kindel reflects the organization’s determination to build its next competitive core.