Penguins Recall Avery Hayes From AHL

The 23-year-old forward scored two goals in his last NHL game before the Olympic break.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 2:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Pittsburgh Penguins have recalled forward Avery Hayes from their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The 23-year-old undrafted player scored two goals in the Penguins' final game before the Olympic break and has impressed the coaching staff with his overall game. Hayes has 19 goals and 30 points in 36 AHL games this season.

Why it matters

The Penguins needed to bolster their forward depth due to injuries and illnesses, and Hayes has earned the call-up with his strong play in the minors. As an undrafted player, his NHL recall is a testament to his hard work and development.

The details

Hayes, who played for the Peterborough Petes junior team, initially was part of a roster platoon with lower-level prospects and veterans in Wilkes-Barre. But he earned a full-time spot last season, scoring 23 goals in 60 AHL games. This season, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound winger has continued his progress, putting up 19 goals and 30 points in 36 AHL games so far.

  • Hayes scored two goals in the Penguins' final game before the Olympic break on February 12, 2026.
  • The Penguins recalled Hayes on February 23, 2026, following the expiration of the NHL roster freeze.

The players

Avery Hayes

A 23-year-old forward who was an undrafted free agent from the Peterborough Petes junior team. He has worked his way up to the AHL and earned a recall to the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who praised Hayes' overall game and performance.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Penguins will need to make a roster move to activate forward Filip Hallander from injured reserve next week.

The takeaway

Avery Hayes' NHL recall is a feel-good story of an undrafted player earning his opportunity through hard work and strong play in the minors. His performance in the Penguins' final game before the break earned him another chance at the NHL level.