Best Penguin By Jersey Number: 11-20
#11 – Jordan Staal (Centre)
Jordan Staal stands out as the best player to wear the #11 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The former third-overall pick is known for his exceptional two-way play. Staal was also a key contributor to the Penguins from 2006 to 2012. His defensive skills, faceoff prowess, and ability to score crucial goals made him an indispensable part of the team. Staal was pivotal in the Penguins’ 2009 Stanley Cup victory, providing depth and strength down the middle as an incredible third line centre. Following his departure, the Penguins tried hard to replace his production through a rotating door of third-line centres like Brandon Sutter and Eric Fehr before finally landing on Nick Bonino in 2016. Staal’s contributions on both ends of the ice and his knack for stepping up in important moments solidify his place as the top player to have worn the #11 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Nick Harbaruk (Left-Wing) – 101 points in 309 games. Kevin Porter (Right Wing) – 3 points in 43 games.
#12 – Greg Malone (Left Wing)
Greg Malone is celebrated as the best player to wear the #12 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Malone played for the Penguins from 1976 to 1983. He was a consistent offensive weapon, recording 301 points in 377 games. Known for his playmaking skills and scoring ability, Malone was a key contributor during his time with the team. Additionally, his legacy with the Penguins extends to the next generation. In 2003, his son Ryan Malone also donned the #12 jersey for the team. Ryan brought grit and offensive ability to the Penguins in the early 2000s. Greg Malone’s impressive performance and lasting legacy on the franchise make him his the top player to have worn the #12 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Ryan Malone (Center) – 169 points in 299 games. Ken Schinkel (Right Wing) – 236 points in 371 games.
#13 – Nick Bonino (Centre)
Nick Bonino slightly edges out Bill Guerin as the best player to wear the #13 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Playing for the team from 2015 to 2017, Bonino was a pivotal part of the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. He is known for more than just his clutch playoff perfomances. Bonino was a key component of the famous “HBK Line” alongside Carl Hagelin and Phil Kessel. His ability to score crucial goals and strong defensive play made him an invaluable player during the Penguins’ championship runs. Bill Guerin, another notable #13, brought veteran leadership and scoring during the 2009 Cup win and later served as an important member of the Penguins’ managemen. However, it is Bonino’s direct impact on the ice during the two championship seasons that gives him the edge as the top player to have worn the #13 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Bill Guerin (Right-Wing) – 57 points in 98 games. Brandon Tanev (Left Wing) – 41 points in 100 games.
#14 – Chris Kunitz (Left Wing)
Chris Kunitz stands out as the best player to wear the #14 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Joining the team in 2008, Kunitz quickly became a key player known for his gritty play, scoring ability, and clutch performances. His tenure with the Penguins was marked by significant contributions to their Stanley Cup victories in 2009, 2016, and 2017. Forming a strong partnership with Sidney Crosby that made its way to the world stage in the 2014 Olympics, Kunitz played a crucial role in the Penguins success. Kunitz scored 388 points in 569 games with the Penguins. His relentless work ethic, leadership, longevity, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations solidify his place as the top player to have worn the #14 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Stu Barnes (Center) – 136 points in 204 games. Dan Quinn (Center) – 273 points in 254 games.
#15 – Randy Cunneyworth (Centre)
Randy Cunneyworth is the best player to wear the #15 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Playing for the team from 1985 to 1989, Cunneyworth was known for his physical play, leadership, and ability to contribute offensively. Serving as the team captain, he was a fan favorite for his hardworking and gritty style of play. Cunneyworth’s leadership helped shape the Penguins during a critical period in their development. The team was still very young at this time. His significant contributions to the team’s success and his role as a leader show why he is the top player to have worn the #15 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Rob Brown (Right Wing) – 342 points in 414 games. Wayne Primeau (Center) – 28 points in 131 games.
Honourable Mentions: Erik Christensen (Center) – 66 points in 143 games. Jason Zucker 98 points in 172 games.
#17 – Bryan Rust (Right Wing)
Bryan Rust edges out Rick Kehoe and other high caliber candidates as the best player to wear the #17 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Known for his versatility and clutch performances, Rust has been a crucial part of the Penguins’ success since joining the team in 2014. His longevity and presence on two Stanley Cup-winning teams in 2016 and 2017 highlight his importance to the franchise. Rust’s impact in the playoffs has been significant, including scoring two goals in Game 7 against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, his consistent contributions on both ends of the ice, and his chemistry with Sidney Crosby, cement Bryan Rust’s place as the top player to have worn the #17 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Rick Kehoe (Right Wing) – 636 points in 722 games. Petr Sykora (Right Wing) – 109 points in 157 games.
#18 – James Neal (Left Wing)
James Neal is the best player to wear the #18 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. He played for the team from 2011 to 2014, and was a prolific scorer for the Penguins. He was known for his powerful shot and ability to consistently find the back of the net. In 179 games with the Penguins, Neal recorded 161 points, including 89 goals. His dynamic offensive presence made him a key player during his tenure, as he had incredible chemistry with Evgeni Malkin on the second line.
Honourable Mentions: Marian Hossa (Right Wing) – 10 points in 12 games. Jarkko Ruutu (Left Wing) – 32 points in 152 games.
#19 – Brian Trottier (Right Wing)
Among tough competition, Brian Trottier stands out as the best player to wear the #19 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Joining the team in 1990, Trottier brought with him veteran leadership and championship pedigree, having already won multiple Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders. His presence was important in supprorting the Penguins’ in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. Known for his playmaking ability and defensive skills, Trottier provided essential support on the ice. His contributions to the Penguins during a critical period of their development and success give him the place of top player to have worn the #19 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Jean Pronovost (Right Wing) – 532 points in 753 games. Ryan Whitney (Defense) – 148 points in 255 games.
#20 – Colby Armstrong (Right Wing)
Colby Armstrong places as the best player to wear the #20 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Playing for the team from 2005 to 2009, Armstrong was known for his energy, physical play, and ability to contribute offensively. He became a fan favorite with his hard-nosed style and knack for scoring. Armstrong recorded 98 points in 181 games with the Penguins, playing a key role in the team’s forward group. His spirited play and contributions on both ends of the ice solidify his place as the top player to have worn the #20 jersey for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Pat Boutette (Center) – 173 points in 247 games. Randy Boyd (Defense) – 21 points in 84 games.
Conclusion
These ten players represent the best to have worn each jersey number from #11 to #20 for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Their contributions to the team’s success have earned them a place in Penguins history. Each player’s impact on the ice has shaped the team’s identity, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. As we wait for the Penguins’ 2024-2025 season, it’s important to look back at the players who have laced up their skates for the black and yellow.
Main Photo: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
