penguins Fall to Blue Jackets 4-1 in Preseason Tilt, Kindel Shows Promising Hockey IQ
PITTSBURGH, PA – September 26, 2024 – The Pittsburgh Penguins suffered a 4-1 defeat to the Columbus Blue Jackets in their second preseason game on Tuesday night. Despite the loss, first-round draft pick Ben Kindel, selected 11th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, showcased a level of hockey intelligence that impressed coaching staff.
Kindel,making his preseason debut,created two significant scoring opportunities. He drew a tripping penalty after getting behind the Blue Jackets’ defense for a clear look at the net, and later generated a full breakaway.
“just his awareness on the ice, he’s one of those players where at times, the game looks easy to him, just as he puts himself in such good positions,” said penguins assistant coach Muse. “When you watch him,the way he positions himself,the way he can change speed - you combine that with that sense to put himself in those great spots,then with the stick skills and just the overall abilities. You saw that at the rookie tournament, and I think you’ve seen it here in practices, and that’s not an easy thing for a young player like that.”
The game held a special significance for Kindel, a lifelong Montreal Canadiens fan despite being raised in British Columbia. his father, Steve, a retired professional soccer player, instilled the Canadiens fandom to combat a family member’s allegiance to the Calgary Flames. Kindel even modeled his jersey number, 11, after canadiens forward Brendan gallagher, whom he admired growing up. He is currently wearing number 81 for the Penguins.
“It was a very cool moment for myself and my family,” Kindel said with a smile, reflecting on playing against Gallagher.
Kindel acknowledged the increased attention to detail required at the NHL level compared to juniors. “Just kind of try and play my game, have confidence in my game, and just leave it all out there,” he stated. “You might not get many opportunities. So just whatever opportunity I get, just go out there, do whatever I can.”
While the Penguins ultimately fell short,Kindel’s performance offered a glimpse of potential and a positive takeaway from the preseason contest.
