Will this former Penguins forward find a new home before the start of the season?
With it now being late August, former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Kevin Hayes remains a free agent.
Hayes still being a free agent comes after he was a depth forward for the Penguins during this past season. In 28 games for Pittsburgh during the 2025-26 season, the 6-foot-3 forward posted four goals and eight points. This was after he recorded 13 goals and 23 points in 64 games for Pittsburgh during the 2024-25 season.
While Hayes had a quiet 2025-26 season, the possibility of him getting another chance from an NHL team should not be ruled out. He has had a strong career and could be a solid pickup for a team needing more forward depth, given his leadership qualities and experience.
With the Penguins having a surplus of NHL-caliber forwards already, a return to Pittsburgh seems unlikely for Hayes. Yet, with training camp starting to get closer, it is fair to wonder if the 34-year-old forward can land a PTO from another club.
Over the last two seasons as a member of the Penguins, Hayes recorded 17 goals, 14 assists, 31 points, and 84 hits in 92 games.
