The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a rollercoaster of a decade since their Stanley Cup victory in 2017. With a focus now on the future, the team is looking to rebuild and find the next generation of talent. The 2026 NHL Draft is a crucial part of this strategy, and the organization is hoping to make the most of their first-round selection for the first time in years. Here's a look at the top five draft picks since their last Cup win, and a few notable mentions.
Top 5 Draft Picks
Ben Kindel (2025, 11th overall): Kindel is a standout performer, having played 77 games and scored 18 goals and 35 points. At just 19 years old, he's already one of the best seasons for an 18-year-old in Penguins history. His skating and competitive spirit have been key to his success, and he's a player who can make an immediate impact in the NHL.
Sergei Murashov (2020, 4th round): Murashov is a potential No. 1 goalie, and his .931 save percentage in the AHL playoffs is a testament to his talent. He's poised to take over the net alongside Arturs Silovs in 2026-27, and his athletic and deep-thinking approach makes him a diamond in the rough.
Harrison Brunicke (2024, 44th overall): Brunicke had a transformative journey, starting with a lackluster tryout and ending with a stellar performance in the 2024 draft. His skating, defensive grit, and offensive push make him a lottery pick, not a second-rounder. He's a player who can make a significant impact in the NHL.
Mikhail Ilyin (2023, 5th round, 142nd overall): Ilyin is a magician with the puck, and his slick play will only improve as he learns to create space on the smaller NA rinks. At just 21 years old, he's a steal and a player who seems destined for the NHL.
Valtteri Puustinen (2021, 7th round, 207th overall): Puustinen played 66 NHL games and had seven goals and 24 points. For a seventh-round pick, this is an impressive feat, and he's a player who can contribute to the team's success.
Honorable Mention
Bill Zonnon (2025, 22nd overall) is a physical player who showed potential in the playoff run. He has the tools to quickly reach the big show and make an impact in the NHL.
Looking Ahead
The Penguins are in a rebuilding phase, and the 2026 NHL Draft is a crucial part of this strategy. With a focus on the future, the team is hoping to make the most of their first-round selection and find the next generation of talent. The organization is also looking to the prospect pool, which has grown exponentially in recent years, to find the next big stars.
In my opinion, the Penguins have a bright future ahead of them, and with the right picks and development, they can rebuild and compete for another Stanley Cup. It's an exciting time for the franchise, and the fans can look forward to seeing the next generation of talent take the ice.
