Penguins’ First-Round Pick Bill Zonnon Set for AHL Playoff Debut

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are on a quest for their first Calder Cup Championship, and they are gaining momentum after successfully navigating the division semifinal against the Hershey Bears. With an eye on the Springfield Thunderbirds, who stand in their way of advancing to the Eastern Conference Final, the Penguins are bolstering their roster with a promising addition.

Bill Zonnon, the 2025 first-round pick selected 22nd overall, has joined the AHL affiliate on an amateur tryout following the elimination of his QMJHL team. While others have been released from their ATOs, Zonnon and forward Ryan Miller remain with the team, a testament to their potential impact.

Head coach Kirk MacDonald confirmed the exciting news, stating, “He’ll be in the lineup at some point, for sure.” This confirmation came during an exclusive interview with Tony Androckitis of Inside AHL Hockey, generating buzz among fans eager to see how the young forward will contribute.

Zonnon, who stands at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 190 pounds, has shown resilience after an injury sidelined him at the start of the 2025-26 season, causing him to miss all of training camp. He bounced back to have a commendable season with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, tallying 14 goals and 46 points in just 35 games. His playoff performance further showcased his abilities, as he added two goals and 15 points over 17 games.

What makes Zonnon particularly intriguing is his well-rounded skill set. He excels at two-way play, combines physicality with a keen sense of playmaking, and thrives in high-pressure situations on the ice. His gritty style ensures he effectively wins puck battles, whether along the boards or in open ice.

While his ceiling may not be sky-high, Zonnon’s mature game provides a strong foundation for success at the NHL level, positioning him as a valuable middle-six contributor for the Penguins in the years ahead.

The WBS Penguins will kick off their best-of-five Atlantic Division Final series against the Springfield Thunderbirds on Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. ET at Mohegan Arena in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, making it a crucial moment for both the team and Zonnon as they look to continue their playoff journey.

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