Pittsburgh Hockey Insider has no direct affiliation to the Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL or NHLPA
Mario Lemieux Honors Late Penguins Broadcaster with Heartfelt Statement
Mario Lemieux honored the late Pittsburgh Penguins broadcaster Mike Lange with a heartfelt statement.
The NHL community is in mourning this week after the tragic passing of legendary commentator Mike Lange, the Pittsburgh Penguins' play-by-play caller for 46 years, at 76 years old.
Since his passing, many tributes have been posted online from fans, colleagues, players, and former players, including Penguins legend Mario Lemieux.
Lemieux talked about his friendship with Lange, as well as his role in his five Stanley Cup wins.
Here's what he had to say about Lange:
"Mike was a Penguins legend and one of the most important figures in franchise history. It was my honor to have him call virtually every goal in my career and play a key role in all five of our Stanley Cup championships. Mike was a one-of-a-kind broadcaster, a tremendous ambassador for the city of Pittsburgh, and, most importantly, a great friend. He will be missed."
Lemieux's statement echoed Sidney Crosby's, who took time to share a few words despite tonight's high-stakes 4 Nations Face-Off Final game between Canada and the United States.
The Penguins captain made the following comment:
"Mike made such an impact on the Penguins franchise and me personally as a player. He welcomed me to Pittsburgh. It was the little things, like words of encouragement at my stall after the media had left, a fist bump to acknowledge a big game, or a wink for a special moment. He was so special, and I am honored to have called Mike my friend."
The Penguins are set to return to action Saturday at PPG Paints Arena, where a bigger tribute is expected to take place ahead of the game against the Washington Capitals.
Once again, we send our thoughts to his friends, family, and fans in these difficult times.
| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 20 | 481 ANSWERS Mario Lemieux Honors Late Penguins Broadcaster with Heartfelt Statement Do you think Sidney Crosby and Team Canada will beat Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off? | ||
| Yes | 454 | 94.4 % |
| No | 27 | 5.6 % |
| List of polls | ||