Penguins Watch: Top 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Commits to Penn State

In recent times, we've seen plenty of players jump from the CHL to the NCAA, and now, another Western Hockey League star appears to be following that trend with a surprise announcement.

On Sunday, it was confirmed that Calgary native Jackson Smith, who has spent the last three seasons with the Tri-City Americans of the WHL has officially committed to Penn State for the 2025/26 campaign.

The 18-year old had a career year with the Americans in 2024/25, posting an impressive 11 goals and 54 points in 68 games played, and with great size at 6-foot-3, it's easy to see why there's so much excitement around his potential at the next level.

Now is where the Penguins come in, as they hold the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and with Pittsburgh desperately needing to land a star defenseman, he, along with Kashawn Aitcheson are becoming genuine selections for Pittsburgh at that point in time.

As of right now, NHL.com have Smith ranked 13th overall in their latest prospect rankings, and with great size combined with skill and leadership, it's not a stretch to say that Dubas could reach for him at 11th overall.

Overall, if they do draft him, this is a good move for his development, as the NCAA is a much higher level of competition than the WHL, and with the size to compete already, Smith could be a home run selection for the Penguins in the 2025 NHL Draft.