Penguins' Peyton Kettles: Returning to action at Memorial Cup
Rotowire
Kettles is in the lineup for WHL Kelowna in its Memorial Cup game versus OHL Kitchener on Friday.
Kettles underwent shoulder surgery in November and missed six months of action, which was on the short end of his expected recovery timeline. The 18-year-old defenseman will get some high-quality action during the Memorial Cup for at least three games to close out the year. Given the time he missed, he'll likely be back in the WHL in 2026-27, as he signed his entry-level contract in November shortly after his shoulder procedure.
Kettles (shoulder) agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level contract with Pittsburgh on Monday.
Kettles was putting together a good start to the 2025-26 campaign, notching three points in five WHL contests. However, the 18-year-old blueliner's 2025-26 campaign was effectively ended when he underwent shoulder surgery Friday that will require a 6-7 month recovery timeline. Even with a lengthy absence, Kettles could push for a spot on the Opening Night roster for the 2026-27 campaign.
... See More... See Less
Penguins' Peyton Kettles: Not in action yet
Rotowire
Kettles (undisclosed) has not been participating at the Penguins' camp and did not skate with the non-game group Friday.
Kettles hasn't signed his entry-level deal since being selected in the second round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. It's not yet clear when Kettles will return to the ice, though that will likely happen with WHL Swift Current rather than the big club.
Kettles is dealing with an undisclosed injury that will sideline him for the Penguins' Prospect Challenge, Michelle Crechiolo of the Penguins' official site reports Wednesday.
Kettles was a long shot to make the Penguins' Opening Night roster even without this injury delaying his development. Still, the 2025 second-round pick should get a look during training camp if he is healthy enough in time to participate. After that, expect Kettles to return to WHL Swift Current for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign.
