The new season is underway, and the Pittsburgh Penguins’ prospects are off to a promising start. GM and President of Hockey Operations Kyle Dubas has successfully infused the organization with talented young players over the last two years through prospect acquisitions and accumulating draft picks, complemented by an improved development team helping current prospects find their path to the NHL.
The Penguins’ forward prospects have notably progressed, with several players showing strong performances early in the season. McGroarty, returning to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS), has quickly found his scoring touch, netting four goals and seven points in five games, including a streak of goals in four consecutive games. Although the Penguins are cautious about rushing him back to the NHL, his continued output may speed up his promotion.
Hayes, 22, despite missing some time due to injury, has made a significant impact with five goals and nine points in 15 games, three of which were game-winning goals. His versatility, defensive skills, and special teams contributions make him a valuable asset who may also see NHL ice soon.
Tristan Broz, who debuted in the NHL recently, impressed at the AHL level with eight goals and 13 points in 18 games. His ability to play both center and wing and contribute on special teams earned him a call-up, though he was briefly sent back to WBS. His continued strong performances could lead to a quick return to the NHL.
Calvert has cooled off after a strong start, going six games without a goal, though he remains a player to watch given his streaky scoring and solid prior seasons in the ECHL and AHL.
Will Horcoff, a 2025 first-round pick, is excelling at the University of Michigan, currently leading the NCAA in goals and points with 18 goals and 26 points in 18 games. Despite being the NCAA’s youngest player last season, he has surpassed expectations and shows promise as a future NHL star.
Lucius, acquired from Carolina in exchange for Jake Guentzel, is having a strong season with Arizona State University, tallying 10 goals and 20 points in 16 games. While still improving defensively, his scoring ability continues to grow.
Other prospects like Plante are also making strides, leading the NCAA in assists, while Miller and Sharon, both fifth-round picks in 2025, show potential in the WHL and OHL respectively. Ilyin, playing in the KHL with Severstal Cherepovets, ranks impressively among young league scorers, demonstrating his growth and playmaking skills.
Fernstrom, another young forward acquired in the Marcus Pettersson trade, has struggled offensively in the SHL, but remains a project with potential if he improves his skating and offensive output.
Notable injuries include Bill Zonon and Tanner Howe, which the organization hopes to manage as the season progresses. Pittsburgh fans can follow ongoing updates on their prospects through The Hockey News.
Fan Take: This update on the Penguins’ prospects is exciting because it highlights a strong pipeline of talent that could shape the future of the franchise. For hockey fans, it signals a potential resurgence for Pittsburgh with young players poised to make a significant impact, keeping the sport competitive and thrilling.
