Penguins forward Ben Kindel was cleared to return to Pittsburgh and will undergo further testing after being hospitalized following a medical episode on the team plane, Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said Thursday, per team reporter Michelle Crechiolo.
Kindel collapsed 10 minutes into the team's flight out of Salt Lake City on Tuesday due to a vasovagal episode, Dubas said. The forward was given oxygen and regained consciousness, and he was taken to hospital after the plane made an emergency landing.
The Penguins placed Kindel on injured reserve and will follow strict guidelines to ensure his safe return to training, practice, and games.
"That's our primary goal, and paramount to his future and health," Dubas said.
Kindel, 19, has registered four points in nine games this season. He impressed in his rookie season in 2025-26, notching 17 goals in 35 points after being drafted 11th overall.
