The Los Angeles Kings have traded their 24th overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In exchange, the Kings received the 31st and 59th overall selections. The Penguins utilized the 24th pick to select Will Horcoff, a player from the University of Michigan and the son of former Edmonton Oiler Shawn Horcoff.
Horcoff had a mixed performance during the 2024-25 season. He started the season with the United States National Team Development Program in Plymouth, where he recorded eight goals and 14 points in 28 games, boasting a +5 rating. He later transferred to the University of Michigan for the season’s second half, contributing four goals and ten points over 18 games. Furthermore, he showcased his talent on an international level, scoring two goals and providing four points in seven games for Team USA at the U18 World Junior Championship.
Although opinions on his offensive capabilities suggest that he might have been a candidate for the second round, his impressive size at 6’4″ and strength make him a valuable addition to the Penguins’ roster. He is also recognized as one of the top defensive forwards available in this year’s draft. It’s expected that Horcoff will return to Michigan in the fall, meaning it may take some time before the Penguins fully realize the benefits of their new acquisition.
The addition of a player like Horcoff could bode well for the Penguins, particularly in enhancing their defensive capabilities in the future. Fans can look forward to his development and potential contributions down the line.