Penguins’ Benjamin Kindel Taken To Hospital

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Benjamin Kindel was hospitalized following a medical episode aboard the team plane shortly after takeoff from Salt Lake City International Airport. The aircraft returned immediately to the airport, where an ambulance transported the 19-year-old to the University of Utah Hospital. Team physician Dr. Dharmesh Vyas and medical staff attended to Kindel on board, and the team confirmed he is conscious, alert, and in stable condition.

Kindel is in his second NHL season after being drafted 11th overall by Pittsburgh in 2025. Following a rookie season in which he scored 17 goals and finished ninth in Calder Trophy voting, the forward has recorded two goals and four points across nine games this season.