Pittsburgh Penguins at the 2025 NHL Draft: A Comprehensive Overview
The Pittsburgh Penguins made significant strides during the 2025 NHL Draft held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where they selected 13 players and executed multiple trades over the course of seven rounds. This year was particularly important as first-year coach Dan Muse looks to infuse young talent into the franchise. Previously with the New York Rangers, Muse took the helm of a Penguins team that last reached the playoffs in 2022 and has been struggling since its last playoff series win in 2018.
Penguins’ First-Round Selections
The Penguins kicked off their draft by picking forward Benjamin Kindel with the 11th overall pick. A strong performer for the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League (WHL), Kindel amassed 159 points over two seasons, including 99 points in just 65 games in the latest season. Recognized for his exceptional playmaking skills, he is poised to make an immediate impact.
Shortly after, the team traded the 12th overall pick to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for their picks at 22 and 31, allowing the Flyers to select center Jack Nesbitt.
- Bill Zonnon (22nd overall) – The Penguins drafted Zonnon from the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. The 6’2″ forward recorded 83 points last season, exhibiting the potential to become a formidable middle-six winger.
- Will Horcoff (24th overall) – Pittsburgh moved up to select Horcoff from the University of Michigan. Standing at 6’5″, he is expected to transition from center to wing in the NHL, bringing significant size and potential with him.
Subsequent Rounds and Notable Picks
Continuing their strategy in the second round, the Penguins acquired the 39th overall pick from the Buffalo Sabres, sending Conor Timmins and Isaac Belliveau in return. They utilized this pick to select defenseman Peyton Kettles, who previously spent three seasons with the Swift Current Broncos.
Moving deeper into the draft, the Penguins made additional strategic selections, including:
- Charlton Trethewey (73rd overall) – A defenseman from the U.S. National Team Development Program, who is committed to Boston University.
- Gabriel D’Aigle (84th overall) – A goalie who played in the QMJHL, noted for his recent training alongside former Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury.
- Brady Peddle (91st overall) – Another defenseman selected from the USHL, demonstrating versatility and potential.
- Travis Hayes (105th overall) – A forward from the Soo Greyhounds, coming off a strong offensive season.
Pittsburgh Penguins Draft Summary
As the Penguins rounded out their draft class, they showcased a range of talent that hints at a promising future for the team. Below is a summary of the players selected by the Penguins during the 2025 NHL Draft:
| Pick | Player | Position | Previous Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Benjamin Kindel | Forward | Calgary Hitmen |
| 22 | Bill Zonnon | Forward | Rouyn-Noranda Huskies |
| 24 | Will Horcoff | Forward | University of Michigan |
| 39 | Peyton Kettles | Defenseman | Swift Current Broncos |
| 73 | Charlton Trethewey | Defenseman | US National Team Development Program |
| 84 | Gabriel D’Aigle | Goaltender | Victoriaville |
| 91 | Brady Peddle | Defenseman | Waterloo Black Hawks |
| 105 | Travis Hayes | Forward | Soo Greyhounds |
With these selections, the Penguins are looking to rebuild and revitalize their roster, showcasing a blend of promising prospects ready to make their mark in the NHL.
