Potential First-Round Targets for Penguins at the 2026 NHL Draft

As the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare for the 2026 NHL Draft, the question looms: who will they target with their 22nd overall pick? General Manager Kyle Dubas is known for his active approach to the draft, often looking to move up or down the board, which makes predicting his selection a challenge. However, if the Penguins stay put, there are several intriguing prospects who fit their preferred profile, particularly among forwards.

Examining Corey Pronman’s player profiles, we can glean insights from the Penguins’ three first-round picks from the previous year. Dubas has a tendency to favor forwards, so our focus will be on candidates in that category. For instance, Pronman highlighted Kindel as “one of the best forwards in the WHL this season,” noting his exceptional skating ability and offensive creativity, despite his smaller stature. His junior scoring record demonstrates his capability to thrive at higher levels.

Bill Zonnon, another first-round selection last year, is described as a “big, fast center” whose skating skills are expected to translate well to the NHL. His ability to create offense on the move makes him a valuable asset. Lastly, Will Horcoff, who made a significant impact after joining Michigan midseason, is recognized for his size and offensive acumen, showcasing the diverse profiles the Penguins have pursued.

This year, the Penguins could consider several forwards who embody similar traits. Pronman describes Ruck as “a dangerous scoring winger” with intelligence and creativity, despite his average skating ability. Ruck’s impressive 104 points in the WHL last season parallels Kindel’s output, suggesting he could be a valuable addition, even if he might not be ready for the NHL immediately.

Hulbert, another potential target, is characterized as a “very skilled scoring winger” with a knack for playmaking. His performance in the WHL, where he amassed 97 points, reflects the type of offensive talent the Penguins have shown interest in. His ranking as the 12th North American skater by Central Scouting positions him well within the draft range expected for the 22nd pick.

Klepov, who led his league with 97 points, is also on the Penguins’ radar. His puck skills and offensive production align closely with the players Pittsburgh has targeted in recent drafts. However, with his potential to be selected earlier, the Penguins might need to consider moving up if they have their eyes set on him.

On the other hand, Hextall offers a different profile as a skilled center with a reputation for solid two-way play. While not a prolific scorer, he embodies the type of player that the Penguins could develop into a reliable NHL contributor. His game might not scream immediate impact, but he could add depth to the center position in the long run.

Lastly, Mutryn stands out as a physical 6-foot-3 winger with a developing offensive game. His style diverges from Pittsburgh’s recent picks, leaning more towards size and ruggedness. Though he may not be a guaranteed first-round pick, the Penguins could contemplate trading down to secure additional picks while still targeting Mutryn.

Ultimately, Dubas and the Penguins have the flexibility to pivot in any direction, including the possibility of selecting a defenseman. As the draft approaches, they will need to weigh their options carefully, considering both their organizational needs and the evolving dynamics of the draft board. The prospects discussed here represent just a few of the potential paths the team could take as they look to bolster their roster for the future.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.