Overview
- Kettles recently underwent shoulder surgery and is out indefinitely after being limited to five WHL games with one goal and two assists this season.
- The deal is expected to slide to 2026–27 because he is not expected to play in the NHL this year, with a second slide possible if he plays fewer than 10 NHL games next season.
- A slide keeps him from counting toward the Penguins’ 50-contract limit while off the NHL roster, though any signing bonuses would still be paid.
- The 6'6" right-shot defender was selected 39th overall in this year’s draft and entered the season ranked No. 10 in the organization by Elite Prospects, third among defensemen.
- Financial terms were not disclosed.