Penguins insider shuts down report of rookie phenom Ben Kindel being loaned to Canada for the World Juniors

Ben Kindel has been on an absolutely incredible pace this season becoming a main reason why the Penguins are currently in the Stanley Cup Playoff race.

Due to his recent success, it was speculated that Kindel would be coveted by Team Canada for the World Junior Championship tournament.

Earlier tonight, Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects reported that both Kindel and Penguins rookie defenseman Harrison Brunicke would be joining Team Canada along with Sharks rookie Michael Misa for the World Juniors.

This report sent fans into a frenzy as Kindel was not expected to be loaned to Canada leaving many fans disappointed hoping he would stay in Pittsburgh.

However, a new report from Josh Yohe of The Athletic has squashed the idea of Kindel representing Canada by indicating he plans to stay with the Penguins.

Kindel this season with the Penguins has 10 points in 23 game and has been a driving force in all three zones for Pittsburgh throughout the season so far.

If Kindel and Brunicke both end up heading to the World Junior Championships Kyle Dubas and Dan Muse will have to come up with a creative way to fill those holes in the Penguins lineup.

With these conflicting reports, the final say will likely have to come from the Penguins and Kyle Dubas himself to confirm whether or not Kindel will be stepping away to play with Canada.

As more information is provided on Kindel's future with the Penguins and Team Canada we will pass that news along to you.