Ben Kindel, a rising star in the NHL, is gearing up for the 2026-27 season, and his journey thus far has been nothing short of remarkable. As he spends his off-season in his hometown of Vancouver, Kindel is not just preparing physically but also strategizing for his role within the Pittsburgh Penguins' lineup.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Kindel's story is his position within the team. With Evgeni Malkin's transition from a pure center to a winger, the Penguins find themselves in a unique situation. Malkin's age and the need for a shift in his role have created a void in the center position, and Kindel is poised to fill it. The question remains: how will he fit into the lineup, and who will be his linemates?
Kindel's performance last season was impressive, averaging 12:36 in even-strength ice time, which was the eighth most among regular Penguin forwards. This puts him in a strong position to be a key player in the mid-line role. However, the bigger question is who he will be paired with. Last season, Kindel's most common forward 5v5 partners were Brazeau, Anthony Mantha, Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty, and Novak, indicating a third-line talent level. But this could change in the upcoming year if Kindel is placed in a spot where he's centering options like Chinakhov, Malkin, Andrei Kuzmenko, and Rickard Rakell, which would elevate him to a more premier spot within the lineup.
In my opinion, Kindel's ability to adapt and work with a variety of linemates is a testament to his versatility and skill. This flexibility will be crucial as the Penguins navigate their lineup decisions. The team will likely experiment with different combinations, and Kindel's willingness to take on different roles will be a significant asset. As he continues to hone his craft, Kindel is poised to make a significant impact on the Penguins' success in the upcoming season.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Kindel to become a pivotal part of the Penguins' strategy. With his strong performance last season and his ability to adapt to different linemates, he is well-positioned to make a significant impact. The decisions made by the team in the coming months will shape his role and the overall makeup of the Pittsburgh lineup. As we wait for training camp to begin, Kindel's journey is a reminder of the importance of adaptability and versatility in the NHL, and how a player's success can be shaped by their willingness to embrace change.
