Ben Kindel in stable condition after “medical episode,” Penguins say

Penguins forward Ben Kindel is in stable condition after a "medical episode" on the flight back to Pittsburgh from Salt Lake City.

The Penguins said Tuesday afternoon that the team plane returned to Salt Lake City International Airport shortly after takeoff after Kindel had a medical episode. The nature of the incident wasn't detailed.

The team said that Dr. Dharmesh Vyas, the team physician, and other medical staff were onboard the plane, all of whom immediately attended to Kindel.

"An ambulance was waiting upon arrival, and he was taken to the University of Utah Hospital for further evaluation," the team said, adding that Kindel's condition was listed as "stable" and that he was conscious and alert.

The team said that the health and safety of players, along with their privacy, is the top priority and that further updates will be provided when appropriate.

Kindel, 19, is in his second season with the Penguins after playing 77 games as a rookie last year.