I was given the opportunity to sit down 1-on-1 with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins’ right wing Avery Hayes. With 19 goals, Hayes currently sits first in team goal scoring and has accumulated 30 points so far this 2025-26 season. Rather than me tell you about his years in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, I’ll let him recap and give us some insight on being a Penguin.
What was the moment early on that made you decide, ‘I want to play hockey’? Was hockey always that clear and definite choice for you?
“Yeah, I never really had any other thoughts. I mean, I played baseball for a bit growing up, but I always knew that hockey was kind of the thing I wanted most. And I just began to dedicate my life to hockey. From college to now, it sort of began to take off.”
Knowing that Michigan is considered a premier, top-tier state for hockey in the U.S, did growing up in Westland, Michigan, influence your love for the game?
“Yeah, 100%. But also, I grew up playing as well, which helped in that development. Growing up around that area, compared to most states, hockey is a lot more popular there. You’re also closer to Canada in Michigan, and many kids go there to play hockey, so it’s awesome.”
Is there anything you miss about back home while you’re playing on the road?
“Definitely just my family, that’s the biggest thing, but that goes for every guy. I have my family back home, but at this point, I am kind of used to it. They do get to visit every now and then.”
When you think back to the younger version of yourself playing hockey, what did that experience playing alongside Sidney Crosby and your best friend, Rutger McGroarty, mean to you?
“I truly can’t even put it into words. Honestly, growing up, I was a big Red Wings fan, so I didn’t love Crosby that much; both teams had good battles. But I respect him so much, and he’s one of the best players out there. It is such a surreal feeling to play in the same lineup as him. And also with Rutger, it’s so amazing. We’ve become best friends, and he’s basically like a brother to me. We do everything together.”
How amazing was it to share that NHL moment with your family in attendance?
“Honestly, going into the game, I didn’t know if they were for sure coming. And then they kind of texted me saying they were getting on a plane either way if I was playing or not. It worked out perfectly. We actually stayed the night there and so did they, so we got to grab food after, and it was really great.”
When that third goal went in on your first AHL hat trick, what was going on in your head during such a special moment?
“I was honestly just so happy to get the win that night, I wasn’t really thinking about any personal accolades. That was a really big win for us coming into the break. So, it was really great to have that win.”
What is your “game day ritual”? Is there anything unique that you do in preparation for a game?
“I wouldn’t say I have anything crazy weird. I have the same ritual that I’ve been following since Juniors, and I’ve been sticking to that. Sometimes I do have to shorten it up a bit depending on how much time we have before a game. But yeah, I have a couple of things I do. Usually, I’ll go on the bench before warm-ups and kind of visualize everything.”
Has 85 always been your number? Is there a special meaning behind your number 85?
“No, I never wore 85. They kind of just gave it to me on my first day of camp. And now it would be kind of a hassle to change it. But I don’t mind it, it looks good.”
Who is the funniest player on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins roster?
“Phew, the funniest. We have a great locker room of funny guys. I’d say Aidan McDonough. The combination of McDonough and Phil Kemp, the two together. I think they could have a podcast and I’d listen to that for hours.”
Is there a Hayes hype song that you listen to before a game?
“No, actually. I’m kind of weird with music. I’ll find five random songs of any genre, and I’ll listen to it for three weeks. So whatever those five songs are will be for the game that week. Sometimes during warm-ups, I do like the music; it helps you kind of clear your mind. But sometimes the music is a little quiet during our games, which we’ve said something about.”
What is your favorite snack to have on the bus for the away game travels?
“I usually have some beef sticks and dates. It’s not the best tasting, but it’s healthy for a pregame snack.”
What is one piece of valuable advice that you would give to all young athletes?
“I’d say just believe in yourself. Everything happens for a reason; you truly have to believe that. And if you work hard, good things will happen.”
That’s all for my interview with Avery Hayes. On February 23rd, 2026, Hayes was called back up to play with the Pittsburgh Penguins following the Olympic break. I wish him nothing but luck in the NHL and until then. . .
Let’s Go Pens!
