Coquitlam Teen Ben Kindel Draws Huge Fan Support as Penguins Face Canucks
Ben Kindel’s family and friends had originally planned a trip to the Langley Events Centre for December 30, but those plans have shifted dramatically. Instead, a large contingent of approximately 180 supporters will gather at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena this afternoon to cheer on the 18-year-old forward from Coquitlam as his Pittsburgh Penguins take on the Vancouver Canucks.
From WHL Expectations to NHL Reality
Kindel, selected 11th overall by the Penguins in last June’s NHL Draft, was widely expected to receive an extended look during training camp before likely being reassigned to the Calgary Hitmen for a third Western Hockey League season. However, the talented teenager forced Pittsburgh’s hand with his impressive play, earning a permanent spot on the roster. Defenceman Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick by the New York Islanders, is the only other full-time regular from the most recent draft class.
The Hitmen visited the Vancouver Giants recently, but any notion of Kindel returning to junior hockey this season had long vanished. “We’ve played a lot of hockey now, so the life kind of settles in,” Kindel remarked on Saturday when discussing his rapid ascent to the NHL. “I’m used to it now. But always games like these ones will be special. It will be a fun one Sunday.”
Impressive Rookie Campaign and Family Legacy
At 18 years and five months old, Kindel is the second-youngest player in the NHL this season. He made his debut at Madison Square Garden against the New York Rangers on October 7, with his parents, Steve Kindel and Sara Maglio, in attendance. Both former Vancouver Whitecaps players who remain involved in youth soccer, they watched as their son began his professional journey. Ben’s younger sister, Lacey, 16, is also a rising soccer star, with both siblings making their national team program debuts in August 2024.
Entering today’s game, Kindel has averaged 15 minutes and 31 seconds of ice time per contest, ranking fifth among Penguins forwards. Through 47 games, he has recorded eight goals and 20 points, demonstrating his offensive capabilities at the highest level.
Earning Praise and Trust in Pittsburgh
The 5-foot-11, 182-pound right-shot centre has recently anchored Pittsburgh’s third line, after spending time earlier this season on the top line alongside legendary captain Sidney Crosby. Kindel also earned first-unit power play minutes, with Pittsburgh Tribune-Review columnist Mark Madden noting that his “puck movement and ability to patiently clear space befits a 10-year veteran.” Madden even suggested that “only Mario Lemieux coming out of retirement again should displace Kindel” from the man-advantage group.
Crosby himself praised the young forward’s attitude and work ethic. “He’s really passionate about the game. He wants to learn. As you can see, he loves being out there,” Crosby told reporters. “He wants to get better but he also is having fun playing in the NHL as an 18-year-old. It’s a great feeling.”
Navigating the NHL as a Teenager
Being an 18-year-old in a dressing room with veterans like Crosby (38) and Evgeni Malkin (39) could be intimidating, but Kindel has adapted well. “At first, when you come to camp, for any young player it’s very surreal,” he admitted. “Once you get to know these guys, they make it very easy. They make it easy to fit in. It’s a testament to the culture in that room.”
Pittsburgh, having missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons, has actively sought to inject youth into their lineup. Kindel and 19-year-old defenceman Harrison Brunicke both made the opening-night roster, marking the first time since 2006-07 that the Penguins began a season with two teenagers. Brunicke was later reassigned to the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers, but Pittsburgh’s decision to retain Kindel underscores their confidence in his immediate contributions.
Focus on Development and Defensive Responsibility
Kindel’s offensive skills are undeniable—he tallied 35 goals and 99 points in 65 games with the Hitmen last season. However, he emphasizes the importance of defensive responsibility and earning the coaching staff’s trust. He has worked closely with Penguins assistant coach Nick Bonino, a former Canucks centre known for his two-way game, and even resides in a basement suite at Bonino’s Pittsburgh home.
“It’s been awesome. His family has been great, taking me in,” Kindel said of the arrangement.
As the Penguins woke up Sunday holding a playoff position in the Metropolitan Division, Kindel’s journey from Coquitlam to the NHL continues to captivate fans. Today’s game at Rogers Arena will not only be a homecoming of sorts but also a celebration of a young British Columbian making his mark on hockey’s biggest stage.
