Young Players Often Face Goal Droughts Like Ben Kindel’s
Pittsburgh Penguins rookie Ben Kindel is currently experiencing a challenging phase in his debut NHL season. As of Thursday night, he is mired in a 14-game goal drought, adding to a broader struggle where he has scored only once in his last 19 games, dating back to early December.
Young Players Often Face Goal Droughts Like Ben Kindel’s
This situation highlights a broader trend among young players in the league. The inconsistency of goal-scoring is a common theme. While players can maintain effort and overall play, their goal production often varies dramatically throughout an 82-game season.
The Nature of Scoring Droughts
- Many young players face significant peaks and valleys in their scoring.
- High-profile athletes like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid are exceptions, not the rule.
- Young players often encounter what’s known as the “rookie wall,” which affects their performance.
This inconsistency is part of the learning curve. Even top draft picks like Jack Hughes and Nathan MacKinnon struggled early before finding their offensive rhythm in subsequent seasons. The situation can be even more pronounced for players selected later in the draft.
Historical Context and Statistics
A review of NHL history reveals interesting statistics related to young forwards. Here are some notable figures:
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Forwards aged 18 who played at least 14 NHL games | 89 |
| Forwards aged 18 who played at least 40 NHL games | 70 |
| Instances of players with 14+ game goal droughts | 48 |
| Players with at least one 10-game goal drought in their age 18 season | 75 |
This means that the goal-scoring struggles Kindel faces are not unprecedented. For instance, Scott Hartnell, an 18-year-old, endured a record 57-game goal drought. Others, including Joe Thornton and Gordie Howe, have faced similar challenges in their rookie seasons.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, it is essential to focus on a player’s overall development. Kindel remains on track to score between 15 and 20 goals this season, a commendable feat for a rookie. The Penguins’ priority should be to ensure he continues to play well, despite fluctuations in his production.
In summary, goal droughts among young players like Ben Kindel are common. While frustrating, these experiences are valuable for their growth in the NHL. With time and patience, Kindel and others will continue to develop their skills and find their scoring touch.
