The Pittsburgh Penguins honored legendary broadcaster Mike Lange in a deeply emotional ceremony before their game against the Washington Capitals on Saturday. Lange, who passed away at 76 last Wednesday, spent 46 years as the voice of the Penguins and became synonymous with the franchise’s rise from underdog to five-time Stanley Cup champions. His iconic catchphrases and vivid storytelling earned him the Foster Hewitt Award in 2001, solidifying his place in hockey history.
During the pregame tribute, Lange’s sons, their families, and former broadcasting colleagues gathered on the ice. Stars Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang joined them to watch a video montage of Lange’s most memorable calls, including „It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh“ and „he beat him like a rented mule“. The crowd erupted in a sustained standing ovation, while Lange’s son held a „Thank you, Pittsburgh“ sign.
The Penguins memorialized Lange with multiple displays:
- A large photo beside yellow roses and headphones on the concourse
- A dedicated radio booth adorned with flowers and equipment
- Helmet decals featuring a gold microphone and headphones
Lange’s career spanned eras from Mario Lemieux to Crosby, blending quirky humor with razor-sharp analysis. Team president David Morehouse stated,
„Mike wasn’t just a broadcaster – he was the heartbeat of Penguins hockey.“Fans continue sharing Lange stories online, proving his voice remains etched in Pittsburgh’s sports identity.
As the Penguins navigate their post-Lange era, his signature phrases and passion for hockey ensure his legacy will echo through PPG Paints Arena for generations.
