Saturday marked the third day of the Pittsburgh Penguins Development Camp, and there were many positives to note.
Mikhail Illin made his debut after arriving late Thursday night and joining the facility on Friday. He participated in the first group session, immediately showcasing his skills. Illin demonstrated a strong shot release, using it consistently during drills, as well as impressive playmaking, delivering smooth passes to teammates.
While some have concerns about his skating, I don’t see it as a drawback. His movement is controlled, though it would be great to see him tap more into his top-end speed. Illin signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Penguins on May 31 but has yet to play for the organization. Assistant GM Jason Spezza told DK Pittsburgh Sports’ Taylor Haase that Illin will stay in the KHL for the 2025-26 season, with hopes of coming to North America full-time in 2026-27.
If you haven’t started paying attention to defensive prospect Finharding, now is the time. On Saturday, he impressed with his exceptional skating and ability to maneuver along the blue line. Though these were just drills, he remained calm and composed with the puck. He is one of the Penguins’ two seventh-round picks in the 2024 NHL Draft and already looks like a valuable find.
Since being drafted, Harding has improved his offensive game, finishing the 2024-25 season with seven goals and 57 points in 67 games for the OHL’s Brampton Steelheads. After signing his entry-level contract in March, he is set to play this season for either the Wheeling Nailers or Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
Wilhokov was quieter during the first two days of camp but made a statement on Saturday. The 2025 first-round pick showcased his shot releases, notably his one-timer, with some impressive goals, including one that beat Justin Bricebore and two more into the top shelf.
Compared to fellow first-rounders Ben Kindel and Bill Zonnon, Wilhokov is more of a “project” player. Michigan will be an ideal environment for his development. He saw significant ice time this past season against Wolverine competition, appearing in 18 games and scoring four goals and 10 points.
The development camp will continue on Sunday and conclude with a tournament on Monday.
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Fan Take: This update from the Penguins Development Camp is exciting for hockey fans as it highlights several promising young talents who could shape the future of the team. Watching players like Illin and Harding develop their skills signals a bright future for the Penguins and adds fresh anticipation for the seasons ahead.
