The Unlikely Rise of Avery Hayes: Why This Undrafted Forward’s Journey Matters
There’s something undeniably captivating about the stories of undrafted players who claw their way into the NHL. Avery Hayes, ranked No. 13 in PensBurgh’s Top 25 Under 25, is one such story—but what makes his journey particularly fascinating is how he’s defied expectations at every turn. Personally, I think Hayes embodies the kind of resilience and grit that hockey romanticizes but rarely sees in such a raw form. His rise isn’t just about stats or rankings; it’s about the human element of perseverance in a sport that often feels like a numbers game.
From Undrafted to Unforgettable: The Hayes Story
Let’s start with the obvious: Hayes went undrafted. In a league where pedigree and draft status often dictate a player’s trajectory, this is a massive hurdle. But what many people don’t realize is that undrafted players like Hayes often bring a unique hunger to the table. They’ve been overlooked, underestimated, and written off—and that chip on their shoulder can be a powerful motivator. Hayes’s two-goal NHL debut against the Buffalo Sabres wasn’t just a highlight reel moment; it was a statement. If you take a step back and think about it, scoring twice in your first NHL game as an undrafted player is the kind of thing that should inspire every kid who’s ever been told they’re not good enough.
The AHL Enigma: Why Hayes’s Minor League Success Matters
Hayes’s AHL numbers are impressive—39 points in 42 games, 24 goals, and a nearly point-per-game pace. But here’s where it gets interesting: his AHL success raises a deeper question. Can he replicate that production in the NHL? From my perspective, the AHL is a proving ground, but it’s not the NHL. The speed, the physicality, the pressure—it’s all different. Hayes’s five goals in 16 NHL games are promising, but they’re also a small sample size. What this really suggests is that Hayes has the tools to be more than just an energy guy, but he’ll need to prove it over a full season.
The Bottom-Six Dilemma: Role Player or Breakout Star?
One thing that immediately stands out is how Hayes has been slotted into a bottom-six role. There’s nothing wrong with being an energy player—teams need those guys. But I can’t help but wonder if Hayes has more to offer. His speed, tenacity, and finishing ability hint at a player who could contribute offensively if given the right opportunities. The challenge, though, is the Penguins’ forward depth. With so many players vying for spots, Hayes has little room for error. This raises a broader question about player development: how do teams balance giving young players a chance while maintaining a competitive roster?
The Intangibles: What Makes Hayes Special
A detail that I find especially interesting is Hayes’s ability to get under opponents’ skin. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a pest. In today’s NHL, where teams value players who can disrupt the opposition while contributing offensively, Hayes fits the mold. But here’s the catch: being a pest isn’t enough. He’ll need to consistently produce at the NHL level to secure a long-term role. What many people don’t realize is that the line between being a pest and being a liability is razor-thin. Hayes walks it well, but he’ll need to refine his game to stay on the right side.
The Opportunity Gap: Hayes’s Biggest Hurdle
The Penguins’ forward depth chart is bursting at the seams, and that’s both a blessing and a curse for Hayes. On one hand, it means he’s part of a talented group. On the other, it means he’s fighting for scraps. In my opinion, this is where Hayes’s story could take a turn. If injuries or underperformance open a door, he’ll need to seize the moment. But if the roster remains healthy and productive, he might find himself stuck in the AHL. It’s a harsh reality, but it’s also the reality of the NHL.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Hayes?
If you ask me, Hayes’s future hinges on two things: consistency and opportunity. Can he maintain his AHL-level production in the NHL? And will the Penguins give him the chance to prove it? Personally, I think he has the makings of a solid NHL player, but the path won’t be easy. What makes his story so compelling is that it’s still being written. He’s not a guaranteed star, but he’s also not just another prospect. Hayes is a player who’s earned every ounce of his success, and that’s something worth watching.
Final Thoughts: Why Hayes Matters
Avery Hayes isn’t just another name on a list. He’s a reminder that success in hockey—or any field—isn’t always about being the most talented or the highest drafted. It’s about grit, resilience, and seizing the moments that come your way. From my perspective, Hayes’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Whether he becomes a staple in the Penguins’ lineup or remains a call-up option, his story is one that deserves to be told. And if there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s that we haven’t seen the last of Avery Hayes.
