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UPDATED Selective USA

What might 18-year-old NHL forwards like Ben Kindel look like this year?

Ben Kindel's NHL debut prospects this season

Ben Kindel could join an elite group of NHL players making their debuts post-draft. Recent history shows such successes are rare.

  • Kindel may make NHL debut this season
  • Previous top NHL debuts by young forwards
  • Comparisons with recent draft+1 players
  • Kindel’s performance exceeds expectations
  • Joining an exclusive group of draftees

Ben Kindel made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 7, 2025, against the New York Rangers. He scored his first NHL goal on October 11, 2025, also against the Rangers, quickly making an impact in his first few games. As of late October 2025, Kindel has played six NHL games and posted 2 points (2 goals, 0 assists) with solid ice time averaging around 13 to 15 minutes per game.[2][4]

Draft Context and Rookie Comparison

Kindel was drafted 11th overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft by the Penguins. Among the 2025 first-round picks, he is one of only three players who have stayed with their NHL teams beyond training camp, alongside first and second overall picks Matthew Schaefer (Islanders) and Michael Misa (Sharks).[1]

This currently places Kindel in a very exclusive group of draft+1 players making NHL debuts and securing regular season minutes, a rare achievement outside the top-five picks.

Performance Metrics and Playing Style

Statistically, Kindel stands out amongst all NHL rookies. He ranks second in five-on-five expected goals per 60 minutes (3.77), second only to Capitol’s Ryan Leonard (3.84). For the Penguins, he leads in on-ice expected goals share at 65.7% and ranks top-five in shot attempt share and high-danger scoring chances, demonstrating his ability to drive play and create scoring opportunities at age 18.[1]

Known for his pace, vision, and playmaking ability, Kindel combines smart puck handling and dual-threat scoring capabilities. His play style involves weaving through traffic, creating multiple passing opportunities, and using a reliable mid-range shot to threaten defenses.[3]

Historical and Development Context

The Penguins have seen a few players break through early, like Daniel Sprong, who played 18 games in his draft+1 season (2015-16), but most forwards outside the top five picks often return to junior or minor leagues for further development. Kindel’s early success has drawn comparisons to players like Jett Luchanko, who debuted early but eventually returned to juniors.[1]

The Penguins are reportedly managing Kindel and fellow prospect Harrison Brunicke on tailored development plans, suggesting a strategic long-term commitment to their progression whether or not they remain permanently on the NHL roster this season.[1]

Luca Fischer

Luca Fischer

Senior Technology Journalist

United States – New York Tech

Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. He earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media. Throughout his career, Luca has been recognized for his clear, analytical approach to explaining complex technologies. His in-depth articles explore how AI innovations, privacy frameworks, and next-generation devices impact both industry and society. Luca’s work has appeared across leading digital publications, where he delivers detailed reviews, investigative reports, and feature analyses on major players such as Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, AMD, Intel, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Perplexity AI. Beyond writing, he mentors young journalists entering the AI-tech field and advocates for transparent, ethical technology communication. His goal is to make the future of technology understandable and responsible for everyone.

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Elena Voren

Elena Voren

Senior Editor

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Elena Voren is a senior journalist and Tech Section Editor with 8 years of experience focusing on AI ethics, social media impact, and consumer software. She is recognized for interviewing industry leaders and academic experts while clearly distinguishing opinion from evidence-based reporting. She earned her B.A. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Berkeley (2016), where she studied human-computer interaction, AI, and digital behavior. Elena’s work emphasizes the societal implications of technology, ensuring readers understand both the practical and ethical dimensions of emerging tools. She leads the Tech Section at Faharas NET, supervising coverage on AI, consumer software, digital society, and privacy technologies, while maintaining rigorous editorial standards. Based in Berlin, Germany, Elena provides insightful analyses on technology trends, ethical AI deployment, and the influence of social platforms on modern life.

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Updates

Editorial Timeline

Revisions
— by Elena Voren
Add SEO improvements
— by Elena Voren
Initial publication.

Correction Record

Accountability
— by Elena Voren
  1. Added exact NHL debut date and first goal date
  2. Included current NHL game and point stats
  3. Specified draft position (11th overall) and year (2025)
  4. Highlighted Kindel's key rookie statistical rankings
  5. Compared with other 2025 notable draft+1 NHL players
  6. Detailed Kindel's playing style and advanced metrics
  7. Provided historical Penguins early debut examples
  8. Noted team development plans for Kindel and peers

FAQ

What are the chances of Kindel making the NHL?

His chances appear promising based on his performance.

How do other draft+1 players fare?

Many struggle to secure a full season in the NHL.

Who are the recent successful young forwards?

Players like Zach Benson and Cole Sillinger qualify.