Ben Kindel's journey in the NHL is an intriguing one, especially as he prepares for the 2026-27 season. With his native Vancouver as his base, Kindel has been working hard, but it's the recent events involving his practice group that have captured attention. The injury to Conor Bedard, requiring shoulder surgery, has dominated headlines, yet it's Kindel's own progress that truly matters.
Kindel's performance has been impressive, and his position in the lineup for next season is a topic of much discussion. The Pittsburgh Penguins face a strategic dilemma with the potential retirement of Evgeni Malkin, a former pure center, now playing more as a wing. Malkin's age and the team's evolving strategy suggest a shift in his role, leaving a gap in the center position between Sidney Crosby and Blake Lizotte.
This is where Kindel comes into play. His ice time and usage, as defined by Dan Muse, indicate a significant contribution. Last season, Kindel averaged 12:36 in even-strength ice time, ranking eighth among regular Penguin forwards. This performance is notable, especially considering his age and the competition. Tommy Novak and Rickard Rakell, both natural centers, have also transitioned into wingers, further highlighting the team's need for versatile players.
The question of Kindel's linemates is crucial. His most common partners last season included Brazeau, Anthony Mantha, Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty, and Novak. This suggests a third-line talent, but the upcoming year could bring a change. If Kindel is placed in a more prominent role, centring players like Chinakhov, Malkin, Andrei Kuzmenko, and Rickard Rakell, his ice time might remain similar, but the quality of his teammates would improve significantly.
However, Kindel's future linemates could also include lower-level players like Brazeau, Novak, Nick Robertson, Elmer Soderblom, and Hendrix Lapierre. The Penguins' strategy is likely to be fluid, testing various combinations to find the best fit. This approach is common in the NHL, and Kindel's adaptability will be key to his success.
As the season approaches, Kindel's focus on honing his skills and building on his rookie success is essential. The decisions regarding his linemates and role will shape the Penguins' lineup, and Kindel's ability to adapt and contribute will be a significant factor in the team's performance. The upcoming training camp will be a crucial period, revealing the final pieces of the puzzle.
