The Pittsburgh Penguins are hockey royalty, known for their star-studded lineups, passionate fanbase, and multiple Stanley Cup championships. But beyond the victories and roaring crowds of PPG Paints Arena lie fascinating tales waiting to be uncovered. Get ready to delve into the surprising stories and defining figures that shape the Penguins’ legacy.
15 Little Known Facts about the Pittsburgh Penguins
- Humble Beginnings
- The Penguins weren’t an instant success. Their first few seasons were rough, characterized by losing records and low attendance.
- “Le Magnifique”
- Mario Lemieux is an undisputed Penguins legend, owning almost every team record and saving the franchise from bankruptcy in the 1990s.
- Jaromir Jagr’s Mullet
- Czech superstar Jaromir Jagr’s iconic hairstyle, the infamous mullet, was as much a part of his image as his breathtaking skill.
- Badger Bob
- Bob Johnson, the Penguins’ coach for their first Stanley Cup victory, is remembered for his motivational catchphrase “It’s a great day for hockey!”
- Sidney Crosby: The Next Generation
- “Sid the Kid” lived up to the immense hype, leading the Penguins to multiple championships and becoming a generational talent.
- The Igloo
- The Civic Arena, nicknamed “The Igloo” for its unique dome shape, was the Penguins’ quirky and nostalgic home for over four decades.
- The Pens and Politics
- The Penguins were the first NHL team to be invited to the White House after winning the Stanley Cup – a tradition that continues today.
- Max Talbot: Playoff Hero
- Max Talbot became a Penguins legend when he scored both goals to win the 2009 Stanley Cup Final against the Red Wings.
- The “Flower” Blooms
- Marc-André Fleury’s acrobatic style in the net and infectious positive attitude made him a fan favorite for years.
- “HBK” Line
- Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino, and Phil Kessel formed the “HBK Line,” a crucial piece of the Penguins’ Stanley Cup run in 2016.
- Back-to-Back Championships
- The Penguins proved their dominance with consecutive Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017, cementing their recent dynasty.
- A Quirky Mascot
- Iceburgh the Penguin is the beloved mascot, adding a touch of fun to the Penguins’ game day experience.
- Rivals Across the State
- The Penguins’ most heated rivalry is with their in-state foes, the Philadelphia Flyers, a battle known for its intensity on and off the ice.
- Consol Energy Center Debut
- The Penguins moved from the Igloo into the modern PPG Paints Arena in 2010, providing fans with a new era of game-day excitement.
- Beyond the Ice
- The Penguins organization is actively involved in the Pittsburgh community, participating in youth hockey development and various charitable initiatives.