The 2025-26 season was undoubtedly a success for the Pittsburgh Penguins. After entering the season with many doubters, the Penguins responded by making it into the playoffs. 

There were many reasons for the Penguins taking a big step in the right direction last season. Ben Kindel was certainly one of them, as the 2025 first-round pick had an excellent rookie season for Pittsburgh.

After making the Penguins' NHL roster, Kindel posted 17 goals, 18 assists, and 35 points. With numbers like these, the 19-year-old forward showed that he is already capable of making an impact at the NHL level. Yet, now that he has a year of NHL experience, don't be surprised if he takes his game to a new level next season. 

Kindel certainly has the tools to blossom into a high-impact player for the Penguins, and it would not be surprising if he takes another step toward that next season. If he can hit a new level offensively, it would be huge for a retooling Penguins club that is looking to continue to have success.

It will be interesting to see what kind of season Kindel can put together for the Penguins in 2026-27. He will undoubtedly be a young player to watch very closely.