Penguins Forward Ben Kindel Suffers Medical Episode on Team Flight
Nineteen-year-old player receives immediate medical attention and is in stable condition.
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Ben Kindel experienced a medical episode on the team's flight Tuesday, prompting the plane to return to Salt Lake City International Airport. The 19-year-old player received medical attention on board from the team's physician and medical staff.
An ambulance was waiting upon the plane's arrival at the airport, and Kindel was transported to the University of Utah Hospital for further evaluation. The Penguins confirmed in a statement that Kindel is conscious, alert, and in stable condition.
The Penguins selected Kindel with the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The British Columbia native made his NHL debut last season, playing in 86 games, scoring 19 goals and recording 20 assists for a total of 39 points.
This season, Kindel has registered two goals and two assists through nine games. He played 18 minutes and 53 seconds in the Penguins' 5-4 loss to the Utah Mammoth on Monday. Kindel is the youngest player on the Penguins' roster.
Members of the Penguins' front office, coaching staff, and medical personnel will remain with Kindel in Utah. The team is scheduled to play its next game on Thursday.