The Penguins have had many talented hockey players wearing their logo. This article analyzes the best Penguins by jersey numbers #61-70. The 60’s range represents an important one for the organization. From franchise cornerstones to key defencemen, the following players have best served the Penguins while wearing a sweater in the 60’s range.
Best Penguins by the Sweater: 61-70
#61 – Steven Oleksy
In a thin field, Steve Oleksy stands out as the best player to wear the #61 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins. As a defenceman, Oleksy contributed to the team’s defence during the 2016-2017 regular season. Over 11 games with the Penguins, he recorded one assist and 24 penalty minutes. While his on-ice contributions are modest, his role in bolstering the team’s depth during a championship season makes him the top player to have worn the #61 sweater for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Sergei Plotnikov (Left Wing) – Two points in 32 games. Luca Caputi (Left Wing) – Three points in nine games.
#62 – Carl Hagelin
Although Carl Hagelin is the only player to have worn the #62 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins, he has certainly earned his spot here. Hagelin was part of the famed “HBK Line,” alongside Nick Bonino and Phil Kessel, during the Penguins 2016 Stanley Cup run. Known for his speed and relentless work ethic, Hagelin contributed significantly both offensively and defensively. Over his time with the Penguins, he played a crucial role in the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. He scored 83 points in 195 games for the team. Hagelin’s ability to create scoring chances, kill penalties, and apply pressure on the opposition made him an invaluable part of the team.
No other players have worn #62 for the Penguins.
#63 – Radim Zohorna
Radim Zohorna takes the spot as the best player to wear the #63 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins, although it should be noted the field lacks significant impact candidates. Known for his size and potential, Zohorna played 58 games for the Penguins, recording eight goals and nine assists for a total of 17 points. Despite the limited opportunities to showcase his skills, Zohorna’s contributions were notable for his brief tenure. His physical presence and glimpses of offence make him the top choice for the #63 sweater.
Honourable Mentions: Tim Wallace (Right Wing) – Two points in 24 games.
#64 – Mikael Granlund
Mikael Granlund is the only player to have worn the #64 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Granlund struggled during his time with the team. Scoring just five points in 21 games, Granlund was too expensive to retain. He was moved in the trade that brought Erik Karlsson to Pittsburgh. Despite his struggles, Granlund’s brief stint and subsequent trade have earned him a place in Penguins history as the sole wearer of the #64 sweater.
No other Penguins players have worn #64 for the Penguins.
#65 – Ron Hainsey
Ron Hainsey takes the spot as the best player to wear the #65 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins. While Erik Karlsson is an incredible defenceman and may be the better player all time, he has not yet achieved anything significant with the Penguins. In contrast, Hainsey played a crucial role during the Penguins 2017 Stanley Cup run, stepping up to the top pair when Kris Letang was injured. Hainsey’s steady defensive presence and ability to handle high-pressure situations were vital to the team’s cup success. His contributions during that championship run earn him the place as the best #65 for the Penguins, at least for now.
Honourable Mentions: Erik Karlsson (Defence) – 56 points in 82 games. Ben Lovejoy (Defence) – 38 points in 184 games.
#66 – Mario Lemieux
Mario Lemieux is not only the best player to have worn the #66 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins but is also the greatest Penguin of all time. Known as one of the best players ever, Lemieux’s impact on the ice was unparalleled. His extraordinary skill, vision, and scoring ability led the Penguins to two Stanley Cup championships during his playing career. Beyond his on-ice achievements, Lemieux’s influence extended off the ice as well. He played a pivotal role in saving the Penguins franchise from relocation as an owner. Lemieux’s legacy is a testament to his greatness, both as a player and as a saviour of the franchise. His contributions have left a permanent mark on the sport and the city of Pittsburgh, solidifying his place as an all-time great.
No other players have worn or will wear #66 for the Penguins.
#67 – Alex Goligoski
Alex Goligoski is the best player to wear the #67 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins. During his time with the team, Goligoski played 177 games, recording 90 points with 23 goals and 67 assists. Known for his offensive ability from the blue line, Goligoski made an impact during his time with the Penguins. Beyond his contributions as a player, his legacy extends through his role in a key trade. Goligoski was traded to the Dallas Stars for James Neal and Matt Niskanen. These two players who would go on to have substantial roles with the Penguins. The combination of on-ice performance and pivotal role in a trade cements Goligoski’s place as the top player to have worn the #67 sweater for the Penguins.
Honourable Mentions: Rickard Rakell (Right Wing) – 110 points in 171 games. Paul Bissonnette (Left Wing) – 21 points in 187 games.
#68 – Jaromir Jagr
Jaromir Jagr is a franchise legend for the Pittsburgh Penguins. As one of the most important players in the team’s history, Jagr’s contributions were instrumental in bringing two Stanley Cups to Pittsburgh in 1991 and 1992. Over his illustrious career with the Penguins, Jagr recorded 1,079 points in 806 games. His combination of skill, strength, and hockey IQ made him a formidable presence on the ice. In 2024, Jagr became just the third Penguin to have his jersey retired alongside Lemieux and the late Michel Briere. Jagr’s impact on the Penguins franchise and his role in their early success solidify his place as one of the all-time greats, not just in Pittsburgh, but in the history of the sport.
No other players have worn or will wear #68 for the Penguins.
#69 – No Players have Played as #69 on the Penguins.
#70 – Louis Domingue
Louis Domingue stands out as the only player to wear the #70 sweater for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Domingue stepped in during a critical period in the 2022 NHL playoffs in lieu of injuries. He went 3-3 in a losing effort to the New York Islanders. However, his impressive performances captured the attention of fans and media alike. Domingue’s resilience and ability to rise to the occasion during high-pressure situations earn him a place in Penguins history as the top player to have worn the #70 sweater.
No other players have worn wear #70 for the Penguins.
Conclusion
The #60s range of players is a significant one for the Penguins. Two of the four Mount Rushmore players of the franchise (Lemieux and Jagr) wore numbers in the 60s. These players, along with others in this list, have shaped the legacy and success of the Pittsburgh Penguins, leaving a lasting impact on the team’s history.
Main Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
