Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Pittsburgh Penguins.
What is the Pittsburgh Penguins franchise?
The Pittsburgh Penguins are a professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, competing in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Metropolitan Division. Founded in 1967 as an expansion team, they have grown into one of the league's most successful franchises with five Stanley Cup championships.
Who is considered the greatest player in Penguins history?
Sidney Crosby is widely regarded as the franchise's all-time great and the face of the modern era, having led the team to three Stanley Cups since his 2005 debut. Mario Lemieux also stands as a legendary figure, winning two MVP awards and two championships while overcoming significant health challenges.
Where should a new fan start learning about the team?
Begin by watching highlights of the 'Pens-Go' era from the late 1990s or the Crosby-Malkin dynasty that began in 2007 to understand their winning culture. Additionally, reading biographies of Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby provides deep context into the team's evolution and identity.
What is the origin of the Penguins' name?
The nickname was chosen through a public contest in 1966 because penguins are native to Antarctica but were historically associated with Pittsburgh due to their black-and-white coloring, which matched the city's early industrial coal and steel image. The team officially adopted the moniker before playing their first game in the 1967-68 season.
What are the most iconic moments in franchise history?
Key milestones include Mario Lemieux's 'Game 7' performance against Washington in 2009 and Sidney Crosby scoring the Series-winning goal in overtime during the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals. The team also famously won their first championship in 1991, ending a long title drought for the city.
Who is the primary rival of the Pittsburgh Penguins?
The Philadelphia Flyers are considered the Penguins' biggest and most heated historic rivals, with their matchups often referred to as 'Battle of Pennsylvania.' The team also maintains intense competitive relationships with the New York Rangers and the Washington Capitals in recent years.
Where do the Penguins play their home games?
Since 2010, the team has played at PPG Paints Arena, which replaced the long-standing Mellon Arena (formerly known as the Civic Arena). The current venue is located in downtown Pittsburgh and features state-of-the-art amenities for fans and players alike.
What colors represent the Pittsburgh Penguins?
The official team colors are black, gold, and white, reflecting the city's industrial heritage of coal mining and steel production. These colors have remained consistent throughout the franchise's history, appearing on every jersey design since inception.
How many Stanley Cups have the Penguins won?
The Pittsburgh Penguins have captured the Stanley Cup five times, with victories occurring in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017. This success makes them one of the most decorated franchises in modern NHL history.
Who owns the Pittsburgh Penguins?
The team is owned by the Fenway Sports Group (FSG), a consortium led by John Henry, which purchased the franchise from Mario Lemieux in 2012 for $350 million. Prior to this sale, Lemieux was the sole owner and had saved the team from potential bankruptcy in the mid-1990s.