Free extension for sports fans
Advertisement
Advertisement

NHL Star Suffered Medical Emergency On Plane During Team’s Flight Home, Forced To Make Emergency Landing

A Pittsburgh Penguins star had a medical emergency shortly after the team plane took off. The team attempted to leave Salt Lake City airport on Tuesday after losing to the Utah Mammoth on Monday.

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 11:32 PM
NHL Star Suffered Medical Emergency On Plane During Team’s Flight Home, Forced To Make Emergency Landing
Key Things to Know
  • Pittsburgh Penguins forward Ben Kindel suffered a medical emergency aboard the team plane, forcing an emergency return to Salt Lake City.
  • Kindel was treated on board by team medical staff and transported to the University of Utah Hospital in stable condition.
  • The emergency occurred following Pittsburgh's 5-4 road loss to the Utah Mammoth on Monday.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Pittsburgh Penguins team plane was forced to return to Salt Lake City International Airport shortly after takeoff on Tuesday due to a medical emergency involving forward Ben Kindel. Team physician Dr. Dharmesh Vyas and team medical staff attended to Kindel immediately aboard the flight. Upon landing, the 19-year-old was transported via ambulance to the University of Utah Hospital, where he was reported to be conscious, alert, and in stable condition.

The incident occurred following the Penguins' 5-4 road loss to the Utah Mammoth on Monday, which concluded a four-game road trip. Kindel, selected No. 11 overall in the 2025 NHL draft, had played 18 minutes and 53 seconds during Monday's game. The Penguins are scheduled to return to action at home on Thursday against the Florida Panthers.

Advertisement

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.