The Pittsburgh Penguins have updated their list of top prospects for the 2026 season, and the changes reflect the growing depth in the organization's pipeline. The list now includes more players who blur the line between near-term NHL contributors and developmental projects. This shift is largely due to the efforts of general manager Kyle Dubas and his staff, who have worked to strengthen the system in recent years. For the first time in some time, the process of identifying the top-20 prospects required more careful consideration, with certain criteria applied to ensure fairness and consistency.
Among the players who made the cut is 19-year-old center Kale Dach, who checks in at No. 19 on the list. His inclusion is notable, especially given that he was selected in the seventh round (201st overall) in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. It's not common for a player of his draft pedigree to appear on a top-20 list, but Dach has made a strong case through his performance in the Western Hockey League. During the 2025-26 season, he recorded 34 goals and 75 points in 63 regular-season games for the Calgary Hitmen, while also contributing at a point-per-game pace in seven playoff matches.
Dach's WHL Performance
Dach's journey to this point began in the British Columbia Hockey League, where he played for the Sherwood Park Crusaders during the 2024-25 season. In just 54 games, he put together an impressive 22-goal, 87-point campaign. That performance drew the attention of the Penguins, who decided to invest in his potential. From there, he moved to the WHL, where he continued to thrive, proving that he had what it takes to compete at the next level.
With the 2026-27 season approaching, Dach has committed to playing college hockey at Penn State University. The decision is a calculated one, aimed at giving him more time to grow physically and technically. In the NCAA, he'll face stronger competition and have access to advanced training facilities. This environment should allow him to add size in the gym and refine his overall game, especially his two-way play.
Penguins director of player development, Tom Kostopoulos, has already taken notice of Dach's progression. He praised the center's ability to adapt and lead in the WHL. "He quickly became a vital player for his team," Kostopoulos said. "He's trusted in key situations, particularly on the penalty kill and during power plays. His creativity and hockey IQ are clear strengths."
Kostopoulos also highlighted Dach's strong work ethic. "He's always eager to be on the ice and keep improving," he added. "That kind of mindset is essential for long-term success."
The Depth at Center and Dach's Place in It
Penguins' Center Pipeline
Center remains a position where the Penguins are looking to add more talent. Names like Ben Kindel, Tristan Broz, and potential future contributors such as Bill Zonnon or Will Horcoff offer some hope for the future, but the pipeline still lacks standout names at the position. Dach, like Ryan Miller, is a bit further from the NHL in terms of readiness but has shown enough to be considered a potential long-term solution.
While he's still some time away from NHL action, Dach's offensive output and improving two-way game make him an intriguing prospect. His ability to score goals and contribute in other areas of the ice suggests that he could develop into a well-rounded player. If he continues to build on his strengths during his college season, his standing among the Penguins' prospects could climb further.
Looking Ahead for Dach
For now, Dach's 2025-26 season in the WHL remains a defining moment in his young career. It's a strong foundation for what could be a promising future, and with the right development, he may one day realize his full potential as an NHL player.