Islamabad, Aug 12, 2025: Ahead of the 2025-26 season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have taken a youth-oriented stance, investing much in the growth of players and their depth. The Top-20 Penguins Prospects 2025 list is more competitive than ever before with some potential emerging talent in the pipeline than we have been able to see in the shortest period of time.
17th overall is Avery Hayes, an undrafted forward who banged his way into the NHL conversation with an impressive season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in the AHL. The 22-year-old bounced back excellent after injury-filled 2023-24 to produced 23 goals and 42 points in 60 games, six of which are game-winners.
His performance has fetched him a two year entry-level contract effective next season. Hayes is a tireless attacker and goes to the net fearlessly and punches above his 5-10, 175 pound weight. His skill vision, passing, and ability to play in any position make him excel in many kinds of position, whereas his small area play and puck battle prowess are real assets in high stakes situations.
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Hayes has the same work ethic as Bryan Rust and maybe not a complete power-forward but comes with the similar versatility and drive. One reason alone will make him a viable candidate to join an NHL roster in 2025-26 His versatility that allows him to play in all situations.
Regardless of where he opens his season, whether in Pittsburgh and he is ready to get a start or play more in the AHL and improve his game, Hayes is a player to watch. Further good performance may quickly take him to the top of the Top-20 Penguins Prospects 2025 lists.
