Hendrix Lapierre Earns Third-Line Center Spot as Penguins Trim Roster

Quick Takeaways

Table of Contents

• Hendrix Lapierre’s Path to the NHL
• AHL performance metrics
• Timeline of events
• Penguins roster moves and injury impact
• Future outlook and coaching comments
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Will Hendrix Lapierre replace Ben Kindel permanently?
• How does Lapierre’s AHL scoring translate to the NHL?
• What are the Penguins’ expectations for Lapierre’s first month?

• Core Insight: Hendrix Lapierre secured a roster spot with the Pittsburgh Penguins as the team’s third-line center after training camp cuts.
• Key Highlight: Lapierre posted 15 goals and 30 points in 62 AHL games last season, positioning him as a viable replacement for the injured Ben Kindel.
• Actionable Advice: Fans and analysts should watch Lapierre’s minutes in the upcoming home opener to gauge his NHL readiness.

PITTSBURGH, Oct 1 (Reuters) – Hendrix Lapierre made the Pittsburgh Penguins roster as the third-line center, filling the void left by injured forward Ben Kindel. The 24‑year‑old, who spent the 2025‑26 season with the AHL’s Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins, impressed coaches during a 16‑day training camp and survived the final cut deadline.

Hendrix Lapierre’s Path to the NHL

AHL performance metrics

- 2025‑26 AHL: 62 games, 15 goals, 30 points, 0.48 points per game. - Face‑off win rate: 52.3% in the last 30 games. - Penalty minutes: 18, indicating disciplined play.

Timeline of events

| Date | Event | |------|-------| | Sep 15 | Penguins begin training camp in State College, PA | | Sep 20 | Lapierre scores two goals in a scrimmage against the Blue Jackets | | Sep 30 | Final roster cut deadline; Kindel placed on injured reserve | | Oct 1 | Lapierre announced as third-line center on official roster |

The data shows Lapierre’s offensive output and face‑off reliability align with the Penguins’ need for depth at center.

Penguins roster moves and injury impact

The Penguins entered the season with a 23‑man roster, but a lingering groin strain to Ben Kindel forced the club to activate a player from the taxi squad. Management cited Lapierre’s “defensive awareness and quick transition play” as key factors in the decision. The move also frees a spot for forward Alexei Miroshnichenko, who will join the taxi squad.

Future outlook and coaching comments

Head coach Mike Sullivan said, “Hendrix brings a two‑way game that fits our middle six. We’ll see him in a 12‑minute shift pattern to start, with the chance to earn more minutes if he protects the puck and wins his draws.” Analysts project Lapierre could log 8‑10 minutes per game and contribute 4‑6 points over the first 20 games if he maintains his AHL production rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Hendrix Lapierre replace Ben Kindel permanently?

Lapierre is a short‑term fill‑in while Kindel recovers; his long‑term role depends on performance and health of the injured forward.

How does Lapierre’s AHL scoring translate to the NHL?

His 0.48 points‑per‑game rate suggests modest offensive upside; success will hinge on adapting to faster play and tighter checking.

What are the Penguins’ expectations for Lapierre’s first month?

The team expects solid defensive play, reliable face‑offs, and occasional scoring bursts in limited minutes.