Analyst Grades Penguins’ First-Round Picks In 2025 NHL Draft

The Pittsburgh Penguins used all three of their first-round picks to stock their pipeline with forwards who bring a mix of skill, size and long-term upside.

With the No. 11 pick, they selected Benjamin Kindel, a 5-foot-10 winger from the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen. Kindel’s speed, creativity and scoring touch made him one of the top forwards in junior hockey this season. Kindel plays a direct style, works hard off the puck and checks nearly every box aside from size.

“This seems aggressive on a small winger without elite skating,” wrote Corey Pronman of The Athletic, who gave the pick a C. “Kindel was one of the best forwards in the WHL this season,” he added, but acknowledged that even Kindel’s strongest advocates did not project him going this high.

At No. 22, the Penguins turned to the QMJHL for Bill Zonnon, a 6-foot-2 winger who has been a top producer for Rouyn-Noranda. Zonnon brings size, a stride built for the NHL and enough puck skill to contribute in transition.

“He’s a good skater with legit skill and two-way ability,” wrote Pronman, who assigned the pick a C-plus. While not especially dynamic, Zonnon’s tools and work rate give him a chance to carve out a role in the bottom six.

The Penguins closed out the round with center William Horcoff at No. 24. After starting the season with the U.S. National Team Development Program, Horcoff joined the University of Michigan midyear and saw his game take off.

“He’s a huge and highly skilled playmaking forward,” wrote Pronman, who gave the selection a B. Horcoff’s frame and offensive IQ stood out, though his heavy feet could limit him at the top level.

Each pick comes with questions, but the Penguins are clearly excited about the upside each prospect will bring.

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