The Pittsburgh Penguins made a significant impact at the 2025 NHL Draft, securing three first-round picks for the first time since 1984. The team selected forwards Ben Kindel, Bill Zonnon, and Will Horcoff.
Penguins President of Hockey Operations and GM Kyle Dubas expressed his excitement about the selections. “For us to come out of the first round with the three players that we did – I think they’re all very different player types – we’re extremely excited,” Dubas said. He emphasized the importance of balancing quantity with quality in their selections.
Initially holding the 11th and 12th picks, Dubas attempted to trade into the top-10 but was unsuccessful. “As you saw, nobody moved out of the top 10,” he explained. Ultimately, Pittsburgh selected Kindel at No. 11 and traded their 12th pick to Philadelphia for the 22nd and 31st overall selections.
Zonnon was chosen at No. 22, followed by a trade with Los Angeles involving their 31st and 59th picks for No. 24, where they picked Horcoff. Dubas noted that without moving up from No. 59 on Saturday, they risked missing high-rated talent.
Ben Kindel, described as a prolific scorer in his Elite Prospects profile, is known for his complete game and hockey sense. “I’d say I’m a complete player,” Kindel remarked. Dubas highlighted Kindel’s production and intelligence despite his smaller stature.
Bill Zonnon impressed with his hard work and versatility. “I’m someone that works hard every single day,” Zonnon stated after being drafted from Rouyn-Noranda. His background includes playing high school hockey in the U.S., then excelling in Quebec’s QMJHL.
Will Horcoff brings size and potential to Pittsburgh’s lineup. Standing at 6-5, he expressed enthusiasm about joining a Stanley Cup-winning organization: “I’m super thrilled to be here.” His father Shawn Horcoff’s experience as an NHL player provides him with valuable guidance.
The Penguins’ strategic moves during this draft reflect their commitment to building a strong future roster through these promising young talents.
