Penguins' Forward Ben Kindel Hospitalized After Medical Episode On Team Plane

Pittsburgh Penguins' forward Ben Kindel was hospitalized following a medical episode on the team plane that occurred shortly after takeoff from the Salt Lake City International Airport Tuesday, the team announced.

Team physician Dr. Dharmesh Vyas and the rest of the Penguins' medical staff gave Kindel prompt medical attention, and the plane quickly returned to the airport, where an ambulance was waiting to take him to to the University of Utah Hospital. Kindel is in stable condition.

The Penguins put out a statement Tuesday regarding Kindel's medical episode:

"The Pittsburgh Penguins team plane returned to the Salt Lake City International Airport today shortly after takeoff due to a medical episode involving forward Ben Kindel. Team physician, Dr. Dharmesh Vyas of UPMC, as well as the team's medical staff, were on board and immediately attended to Ben. An ambulance was waiting upon arrival, and he was taken to the University of Utah Hospital for further evaluation. Ben is conscious, alert and in stable condition.

"The health and safety of our players, as well as the privacy for their families, are our top priority. The team will provide further updates when appropriate."

The Penguins and Utah Mammoth played Monday to conclude a four-game Western road trip for Pittsburgh. The team remained in Salt Lake City for a bit after the emergency landing then flew back to Pittsburgh later Tuesday, and some members of the front office, coaching staff, and medical staff stayed in Utah with Kindel.

Further updates on Kindel's status will be provided when released by the team. General manager and President of Hockey Operations Kyle Dubas is scheduled to speak with the media Thursday prior to the morning skate.

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