NHL Insiders Reveal Two Bold Predictions Ahead of Penguins' Season Opener

It's a new NHL season, and that can only mean one thing: NHL analysts and insiders around the league all issue their predictions. There's a good chance this is going to be a season of change and theatrics for the Penguins.

Pittsburgh got younger, with high prospects Harrison Brunicke, Ben Kindel, and Ville Koivunen all joining the opening-night roster.

Combining those young players with some veteran presence gives the Penguins an interesting mix, one that might catch people off guard if it manages to stick together early.

So where do they end up in the Metropolitan Division standings? Can they battle for a playoff spot, or are they in a full-on rebuild season? NHL insiders Hunter Hodies and Kelsey Surmacz had their say.

Kelsey has the Penguins placing sixth in the division, just out of playoff contention. Her bold prediction is that rookie Ben Kindel remains on the roster for the entire season and tops 40 points.

She sees the 18-year-old winger as having the ability and confidence to contribute immediately.

Hunter, meanwhile, has Pittsburgh seventh in the division, just ahead of their arch-rival Flyers. His bold prediction is that Erik Karlsson will score more than 70 points.

With new coaches and a solid defensive partner, he believes Karlsson will be more like the dynamic playmaker fans saw at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Wherever they may end up, the Penguins' combination of older and young players ensures that this season will be fascinating. With Kindel's ascension and Karlsson's bounce-back, there is plenty to watch in Pittsburgh's new era.