Welcome to this edition of the 2025 WHL Prospect Pools. Throughout the 2025 off-season, we will be taking a look at current or recently graduated WHLers who have either been drafted or signed by NHL clubs. Today's organization is the Pittsburgh Penguins, which has seven WHLers in its prospect pool.
The Penguins have been stockpiling WHL talent over the last two drafts. In 2024, they added two prospects, selecting Kamloops Blazers defenceman Harrison Brunicke 44th overall, Calgary Hitmen forward Tanner Howe 46th overall and Kelowna Rockets forward Max Graham 139th overall. As for the 2025 draft, Pittsburgh drafted Hitmen forward Ben Kindel in the first round, Swift Current Broncos defenceman Peyton Kettles in the second round, Portland Winterhawks forward Ryan Miller in the fifth round and Calgary Hitmen's Kale Dach in the seventh round.
Starting with Brunicke, there is a chance that he makes the Penguins roster out of camp this year. The 19-year-old had 30 points in 41 games last season while also making his AHL regular-season and playoff debuts. Listed at 6'3", 203 lbs, Brunicke returning to the WHL would be a massive addition to the Blazers' lineup.
Next up is Howe, who was traded from the Regina Pats to Calgary this past year. The 19-year-old had 39 points in 37 games after the trade and was also part of Canada's 2025 World Juniors team. Listed at 5'11", 183 lbs, Howe is projected to play this season at the pro level.
As for Graham, he wrapped up his WHL career in 2024-25. The 21-year-old recorded 35 points in 34 games and served as Kelowna's captain. Listed at 6'3", 209 lbs, Graham is signed to an AHL contract for the 2025-26 season.
Leading the way for the 2025 draft class is Ben Kindel. The 18-year-old had a campaign to remember, recording 99 points in 65 games. Listed at 5'11", 181, Kindel may be a candidate for WHL MVP by the end of the year.
Moving to Kettles, who has become a force on the blue line. The 17-year-old recorded 14 points in 53 games and was one of the youngest players selected in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Listed at 6'6", 194 lbs, Kettles will be a big part of Swift Current's team next season.
As for Miller, he was one of Portland's top forwards during the 2025 playoffs. The 18-year-old recorded 31 points in 50 games before producing 13 in 16 during the post-season. Listed at 6'0", 176, next season will be Miller's last in the WHL before he heads to the NCAA in 2026-27.
Lastly, Dach is scheduled to make his WHL debut this season. The 18-year-old will be playing for the Hitman after spending last year in the BCHL. Listed at 5'11", 172 lbs, Dach has committed to Penn State University for the 2026-27 season.
Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.
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