Penguins Rookie Avery Hayes Mic'd Up in NHL Debut

The 20-year-old center was wired for sound in his first professional game.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Avery Hayes, a 20-year-old center for the Pittsburgh Penguins, was mic'd up during his NHL debut against the Buffalo Sabres. The video footage provides a behind-the-scenes look at the young player's experience as he steps onto the ice for the first time at the professional level.

Why it matters

Giving fans a personal, up-close perspective of a player's first NHL game helps build excitement and connection with the team's newest talent. Allowing viewers to hear the player's thoughts and reactions in real-time adds an intimate layer to the viewing experience.

The details

The video shows Hayes taking the ice, getting instructions from coaches, and interacting with teammates as he prepares for his NHL debut. Viewers can hear Hayes' nerves and enthusiasm as he expresses his excitement to play in his first professional game.

  • Avery Hayes made his NHL debut on February 11, 2026 against the Buffalo Sabres.

The players

Avery Hayes

A 20-year-old center who was recently called up from the Penguins' minor league affiliate to make his NHL debut.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that plays in the National Hockey League (NHL).

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What they’re saying

“I'm just trying to soak it all in and enjoy the moment. This is what I've been working for my whole life.”

— Avery Hayes, Penguins Rookie (NHL.com)

What’s next

The Penguins will continue to monitor Hayes' progress and development as he looks to establish himself as a regular in the NHL lineup.

The takeaway

Giving fans an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at a player's NHL debut helps build excitement and connection with the team's newest talent, providing a unique perspective that enhances the viewing experience.