Canada has produced some of hockey’s greatest players; this article spotlights the Pittsburgh Penguins’ all-time Canadian starting lineup. Over the decades, Canadian players have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and success of the franchise. Their contributions have led the team to multiple Stanley Cup victories. Ranging from incredible offensive prowess to defensive excellence, the Penguins’ history is deeply intertwined with the contributions of these Canadian stars.
Penguins All-Time Canadian Lineup
Left Defence – Paul Coffey
Paul Coffey is one of the most electrifying offensive defencemen in NHL history. He brought a unique blend of speed, skill, and offensive ability to the Pittsburgh Penguins’ blue line. After joining the team in 1987, Coffey quickly established himself on the roster. He achieved back-to-back 100-point seasons and became a key player on the teams blueline. Coffey’s ability to generate offence from the back end was remarkable, as he used elite skating and hockey IQ to dominate games. With 440 points in just 331 games for Pittsburgh, Coffey played a pivotal role in the teams success that would lead to the team’s first Stanley Cup in 1991. His contributions to the Penguins cement his legacy as one of the greatest defensemen to ever play the game, and the best all-time Canadian left defenceman to play for the organization.
Right Defence – Kris Letang
Kris Letang is the best Canadian right defenceman for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Letang has been the cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Penguins defence for over a decade. Drafted in 2005, he worked his way into the Penguins lineup, becoming the Penguins’ all-time leader in points among defenceman. Letang has scored 742 points in his 1087 games with the team. His ability to contribute on both ends of the ice—whether its quarterbacking the power play, eating minutes against top opponents, or producing in crucial moments—has been integral to Pittsburgh’s three Stanley Cup victories during his time with the team. Despite battling serious injuries throughout his career, Letang’s resilience and leadership have made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. His legacy will be as one of the greatest defencemen in team history, making him the best Canadian right-defenceman on the team.
Left Wing – Chris Kunitz
Chris Kunitz may not have had the most inherently natural skill as a player, but his impact on the Pittsburgh Penguins is plentiful. As a key player during the Penguins’ most successful times in the Sidney Crosby era, Kunitz brought a combination of grit, tenacity, and scoring ability to the left side. He was an essential part of the team’s top six during his time with the team. His chemistry with Sidney Crosby was notable, as the duo played closely together during multiple Stanley Cup runs. Over his nine seasons with the Penguins, Kunitz scored 388 points. Known for his relentless work ethic and ability to perform in high-pressure situations, Kunitz’s contributions go beyond the scoresheet, as he provided leadership and experience to the organization. Kunitz’s legacy is as one of the most dependable left wings in franchise history.
Centre – Mario Lemieux
Mario Lemieux is not just the greatest player in Pittsburgh Penguins history; he is one of the most iconic figures in hockey history. Drafted first overall in 1984, Lemieux eventually transformed the Penguins from a struggling franchise into a contending team. Over his illustrious career, Lemieux scored 1,723 points (690 goals, 1,033 assists) in just 915 games. This is one of the highest points-per-game averages in NHL history. Lemieux’s combination of size, skill, and vision was unmatched, and it allowed him to dominate opponents with ease. Beyond statistics, Lemieux’s continued impact on the Penguins was profound: he led the team to two Stanley Cup victories as a player in 1991 and 1992 before later saving the franchise from financial ruin by becoming an owner. Mario Lemieux did not just revolutionize the game on the ice, but also secured the future of hockey in Pittsburgh.
Right Wing – Rick Kehoe
Rick Kehoe’s consistency and longevity with the Penguins help establish himself as the all-time best Canadian right-wing in team history. Kehoe was known for his goal-scoring ability and offensive production. He was a top performer during the pre-Lemieux era of the team, providing a steady offensive presence on a team that was yet to find much success. Over his 11 seasons with the Penguins, Kehoe put up 636 points. Kehoe’s leadership and consistency as a Penguin solidify him the all-time best Canadian right wing for the Penguins.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Penguins’ history is filled with incredible Canadian talent. From the high-octane offensive ability of Mario Lemieux and Rick Kehoe to the gritty, dependable play of Chris Kunitz, these forwards have defined eras of the team. Paul Coffey and Kris Letang have anchored the blue line with their elite two-way games. As Canadian talent have been the backbone for the franchise during peak periods of success, it is a great exercise to look back and acknowledge these Canadian achievements.
Main Photo: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports
