The Pittsburgh Penguins have featured incredible players from non-traditional markets, this article highlights their all-time best. The Pittsburgh Penguins have seen talented players from all over the world represent the black and gold. In similar articles, I’ve covered the all-time line-ups for the usual hockey powerhouses like Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Russia, along with the Czech Republic. However, the Penguins have been home to players from other nations who have also left their marks on the franchise. This article highlights the best players from those “Rest of the World” nations who have played significant roles for the Penguins.
Rest of the World Penguins Lineup
Goaltender – Peter Skudra (Latvia)
Peter Skudra is a lesser-known goaltender hailing from Latvia. Skudra played as a backup goaltender for the Penguins in the late 1990s. While he was never the starter, Skudra’s performances were often good enough when called upon. He for his quick reflexes and positioning, providing stability in net during his tenure. In 74 appearances with the Penguins, Skudra posted an .894 save percentage and a 2.71 goals-against average. His ability to step in and deliver adequate goaltending made him a reliable option for the team during his time with the team. Although his time with the Penguins was relatively brief, his contributions were notable. Skudra’s presence in goal added depth to the Penguins’ roster, and his performances give him the spot on the all-time best rest of world Penguins lineup.
Left Defence – Olli Määttä (Finland)
Finnish blueliner Olli Määttä earns his spot on the all-time best Penguins lineup due to steady play with the team. He was a reliable component of the Penguins’ defence from 2013-2019. Drafted 22nd overall in 2012, Määttä quickly made his mark in the 2013-2014 season. His calm demeanour under pressure and ability to play significant minutes also made him an important part of the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. Määttä’s defensive instincts, combined with his two-way play, were key factors earning him this spot. Over 362 games with Pittsburgh, Määttä scored 107 points. Määttä’s contributions as a rookie and further role in the Penguins’ defensive core during their championship years cement his place as the all-time best-left defenceman for the Pittsburgh Penguins with our criteria.
Right Defence – Janne Laukkanen (Finland)
Another Finnish defenceman rounds out the defensive pairing for this lineup. Janne Laukkanen brought a mix of mobility and offensive ability to the Penguins in the late 1990s. He was recognized for his ability to skate the puck out of danger defensively while pitching in occasional offence. During his time with the team, he played 125 games and put up 48 points. Laukkanen’s puck-moving skills made him a valuable asset, especially in transition. Additionally, His versatility allowed him to play in various situations, from power play to penalty. Although his time with the Penguins was relatively short, Laukkanen served as an important utility piece from the blueline. His smooth skating and hockey sense earn him a spot on the all-time best Penguins list for the non-highlighted nations.
Left Wing – Jarkko Ruutu (Finland)
Continuing the Finnish theme in the middle of this line-up list, Jarkko Ruutu gets the honours on this all-time list. The gritty and tenacious winger from Finland brought a unique blend of physicality and offensive touch to the Penguins during his tenure. Ruutu was mainly known for his role as an agitator, as he was great at getting under the skin of opponents. However, Ruutu also pitched in offensively in a depth role. Over two seasons with the team, Ruutu played in 152 games, recording 32 points. His relentless forechecking, physicality, and ability to pitch in offence made him an important Swiss-army knife type of player. Ruutu’s work ethic made him a fan favourite, as agitators like Ruutu tend to gain popularity for their electric playstyles.
Centre – Teddy Blueger (Latvia)
Riga Latvia’s own Teddy Blueger takes the spot as the all-time best centre for the rest of the world lineup. He was a key bottom-six player for the Penguins for several years. Known for his defensive prowess and faceoff skills, Blueger developed into an outstanding two-way forward capable of being trusted in all situations. Following his debut with the Penguins in 2019, Blueger utilized a unique skill set to establish himself as an integral part of the team’s depth group. His duties included shutting down top competition, killing penalties, and contributing occasional offence. Over 250 games with the Penguins, Blueger has scored 92 points. His hockey IQ, work ethic, and versatility made him a favorite of the coaching staff. Blueger’s commitment to a strong-two way game solidifies his place as the all-time best centre for the Penguins from the rest of the world.
Right Wing – Tom Kühnhackl (Germany)
German forward Tom Kühnhackl played a critical depth role on the Penguins during a successful period of the team’s history. Known for his defensive ability, Kühnhackl was an essential depth player capable of shutting down the opposition during crucial moments. Over 168 games with the Penguins, Kühnhackl recorded 39 points, although his impact was most felt during the playoffs. Kühnhackl provided an integral willingness to do the dirty work like blocking shots and grinding in corners. These skills gave him a responsible two-way game that made him an invaluable part of the Penguins’ bottom six. His strong work ethic earned him the trust of the coaching staff, who were happy to deploy him in critical situations. Kühnhackl’s contributions to the Penguins’ success playing an underrated role make him the all-time best right-winger from outside the listed nations to play for the Penguins.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Penguins have been fortunate to utilize a diverse array of talent from around the globe. This “Rest of the World” starting lineup highlights the best of those players from outside the main traditional hockey powerhouses. Their contributions highlight the league’s continuous evolution into featuring more diverse nations. As such, these players also deserve to be recognized as part of this all-time line-up.
Main Photo: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
