Penguins Forward Undergoes Major Surgery as Timeline for Return Revealed

While the present of the Pittsburgh Penguins isn't bright, their intriguing prospect group gives some hope to fans that have now seen the team miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs in three straight seasons.

Unfortunately for Pittsburgh, one of their top prospects recently suffered an injury in the WHL Playoffs, and now it has been confirmed that Tanner Howe will need nine months to recover following ACL surgery.

The former second-round pick has immensely high potential as he looked to help the Calgary Hitmen deep in the post-season, but unfortunately, the injury now means he'll be unlikely to play a big role for any team next season.

The 19-year old had a stellar 2024/25 campaign, posting 12 goals and 39 points after being acquired by the Hitmen from the Regina Pats, with an impressive 9 points in six playoff games, and while he's not a can't miss prospect, he could quietly become a very solid contributor at the professional level.

That professional debut will now be delayed by quite some time, but with Howe turning 20 in November, he's eligible for the WBS Penguins next season, so don't be surprised to see him there at some point after his recovery from his ACL injury.

For now though, Penguins fans will have to be patient to get a glimpse of their future, but with some key prospects already making their NHL debuts late in the season, it's safe to say that if the team are looking to rebuild, we'll be seeing plenty more pieces of the future find their way to Pittsburgh in the near future.