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Best Pittsburgh Penguin by Jersey Numbers: #1-10

The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a storied history filled with remarkable players donning their jerseys. As we look back through the decades, each jersey number carries its own legacy, showcasing the talent of the players who wore them. This article is the first in a series, highlighting the best Penguins player to wear each jersey number from #1 to #100. Celebrating their contributions and the unforgettable moments they brought to the team and its fans, from stalwart goaltenders to dynamic forwards and solid defensemen, these players have left an indelible mark on the franchise.

Best Penguins By Jersey Numbers: 1-10

#1 – Johan Hedberg (Goaltender)

Johan Hedberg,  known as “The Moose,” stands out as the best Pittsburgh Penguins player to don the #1 jersey. Playing for the Penguins from 2000 to 2003, Hedberg’s tenure was marked by memorable moments. With 147 games played, Hedberg secured 63 wins, showcasing a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.88 and a save percentage of .901. His resilience and consistent performances cemented his legacy as a fan favourite and a key figure in the team’s goaltending history. During a bleak time in team history, “The Moose” was a bright spot for the team before the current core of the team came together.

Honourable Mentions: Casey DeSmith (Goaltender), Jim Rutherford (Goaltender).

#2 – Jim Paek (Defence)

Jim Paek stands out as the best player to wear the #2 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Paek played for the Penguins from 1990 to 1994, contributing significantly to the team’s defense during his tenure. His time with the Penguins was marked by his role in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. Paek’s reliable defensive play made him a valuable asset to the team. Over 170 games with the Penguins, Paek scored 4 goals and 26 assists, totaling 30 points. His defensive prowess and steady presence on the blue line solidified his place in Penguins history. Paek is also a significant figure, being the first Korean-born NHL player and Stanley Cup winner.

Honourable Mentions: Hal Gill (Defence), Chad Ruhwedel (Defence)

#3 – Olli Maatta (Defence)

Olli Maatta is the best player to wear the #3 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Playing for the Penguins from 2013 to 2019, Maatta was a crucial part of the team’s defensive core. His tenure with the Penguins was marked by his solid defensive play, hockey IQ, and ability to contribute offensively occasionally. Maatta played in 362 regular-season games, scoring 25 goals and 82 assists for a total of 107 points. He was also important in the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017, showcasing his reliability in high-pressure situations.

Honourable Mentions: Doug Bodger (Defence), Alex Goligoski (Defence)

#4 – Larry Murphy (Defence)

Larry Murphy is widely regarded as the best player to have worn the #4 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. During his tenure with the Penguins from 1990 to 1995, Murphy played a crucial role in the team’s defensive group. He was also instrumental in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. Known for his exceptional playmaking abilities and offensive contributions from the blue line, Murphy amassed 301 points in 336 regular-season games with the Penguins, including 85 points in the 1992-93 season alone. His defensive reliability, combined with his offensive prowess, made him a key player during one of the most successful periods in Penguins history. Murphy’s impact on the ice and his contributions to two Stanley Cup championships solidify his place as the top player to have worn the #4 jersey for the Penguins.

Honourable Mentions: Justin Schultz (Defence), Rob Scuderi (Defence)

#5 – Ulf Samuelsson (Defence)

Ulf Samuelsson is celebrated as the best player to wear the #5 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Known for his rugged and physical style of play, Samuelsson was a cornerstone of the Penguins’ defense from 1991 to 1998. He played a pivotal role in the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. Samuelsson brought an intimidating presence and defensive prowess to the ice. Over his Penguins career, Samuelsson played in 336 games, scoring a total of 94 points. His consistent defensive contributions and ability to shut down the opposition made him an indispensable part of the Penguins’ blue line during one of the most successful periods in the team’s history.

Honourable Mentions: Deryk Engelland (Defence), Janne Laukkanen (Defence)

#6 – Trevor Daley (Defence)

Trevor Daley is the best player to wear the #6 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Daley joined the team in December 2015 as part of the Scuderi trade. He quickly made his mark with his smooth skating, offensive skills, and veteran presence. He played a crucial role in the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. Despite suffering a broken ankle during the 2016 playoffs, Daley’s impact on the team was significant. In 109 regular-season games with the Penguins, he recorded 11 goals and 30 assists. His leadership, resilience, and ability to contribute in critical moments make him an important Penguin looking back.

Honourable Mentions: Ryan Whitney (Defence), Ben Lovejoy (Defence)

#7 – Joe Mullen (Right-Wing)

Amid a list of incredible players at #7, Joe Mullen is celebrated as the best player to wear the number for the Pittsburgh Penguins. During his tenure with the Penguins from 1990 to 1995 and again in 1996-97, Mullen was a key offensive presence. Known for his goal-scoring ability, Mullen played an integral role in the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. Over his time with the Penguins, he amassed 153 goals and 325 points in 379 regular-season games. His veteran presence, leadership, and clutch performances in crucial moments made him an invaluable asset to the team. Mullen’s contributions on the ice helped solidify the Penguins’ dominance in the early 1990s.

Honourable Mentions: Matt Cullen (Centre), Paul Martin (Defence)

#8 – Brian Dumoulin (Defence)

Brian Dumoulin takes the honor as the best player to wear the #8 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Dumoulin edges out Mark Recchi due to his contributions to two Stanley Cup victories versus Recchi’s one. Dumoulin, a steady and reliable defenceman, played a crucial role in the Penguins’ back-to-back championships in 2016 and 2017. Known for his exceptional defensive play, ability to log significant minutes, and calm presence on the ice, Dumoulin became a cornerstone of the Penguins’ blue line. His contributions were vital in high-pressure situations, helping to secure the team’s success during his tenure from 2014 to 2023 as Kris Letang‘s defensive rock. Dumoulin’s consistent defensive excellence and role in two championship runs along with his longer tenure highlight him as an important Penguin.

Honourable Mentions: Mark Recchi (Right-Wing), Randy Boyd (Defence)

#9 – Pascal Dupuis (Right-Wing)

Pascal Dupuis takes the top spot as the best player to wear the #9 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins due to his immense importance to captain Sidney Crosby and the entire team during his time in Pittsburgh. Dupuis was a contributor to the Penguins’ 2009 Stanley Cup victory with his speed, versatility, and defensive skills. Dupuis had incredible chemistry with Chris Kunitz and Crosby on the top line. Even after a blood clot condition forced him to retire early, Dupuis remained a crucial figure in the locker room, providing mentorship and emotional support. His on-ice contributions and unwavering commitment to his teammates remain appreciated by fans.

Honourable Mentions: Evan Rodrigues (Centre), Andy Bathgate (Right-Wing)

#10 – Ron Francis (Centre)

Ron Francis stands out as the best player to wear the #10 jersey for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Joining the team in 1990, Francis quickly established himself as an elite playmaker and two-way forward. During his tenure with the Penguins, he recorded 613 points in 533 games. Francis was instrumental in the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992, providing critical leadership. His exceptional vision, passing ability, and defensive acumen made him a cornerstone of the Penguins’ success in the early 90s.

Honourable Mentions: Gary Roberts (Left-Wing), Bob Errey (Left-Wing)

Conclusion

These ten players represent the best to have worn each jersey number from #1 to #10 for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Their contributions to the team’s success, whether through scoring crucial goals, making pivotal saves, or providing rock-solid defense, have earned them a place in Penguins history. Each player’s unique impact on the ice has helped shape the team’s identity and left a lasting legacy for future generations of fans to admire.

Main Photo: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Rohit Bhamra

Rohit Bhamra

Rohit is a Business Communications graduate from Brock University. He's been watching and following the NHL since 2012. Although he is from Toronto, his favourite team has always been the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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