Best Penguins by Jersey Number: #28

The Pittsburgh Penguins have a rich history filled with talented players who have donned their jersey over the years. Today, we delve into the legacy of the best player to wear the #28 jersey for the Penguins.

Throughout the team’s history, twenty-six players have sported the #28, with many of them being defensemen like Gordie Roberts, Kjell Samuelsson, and Michael Roszival. However, one standout player who currently wears the #28 for the Penguins is Marcus Pettersson.

Drafted 38th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Pettersson eventually found his way to the Penguins in 2018. Initially known for his defensive prowess, Pettersson gradually honed his game, showcasing his offensive capabilities while solidifying his reputation as an elite defensive defenseman.

During the 2022-23 season, Pettersson’s defensive skills were on full display, garnering praise for his exceptional performance on the ice. His contributions to the team’s defensive strategies were highlighted in various statistics, showcasing his impact on the Penguins’ overall gameplay.

As an underrated top-four defenseman in the league, Pettersson’s defensive acumen and penalty-killing abilities have been instrumental to the Penguins’ success. In the 2023-24 season, he achieved career highs in goals and points, further solidifying his importance to the team.

One memorable moment from Pettersson’s career includes a no-look overtime goal against the Ottawa Senators, demonstrating his offensive flair and ability to make crucial plays when it matters most.

Looking ahead, fans can anticipate Pettersson’s offensive output to continue to rise, especially if he continues to partner with top offensive defenseman Erik Karlsson. With his pending unrestricted free agency in 2025, Pettersson’s future with the Penguins looks promising, as he aims to build on his impressive track record with the team.

In his seven-year tenure with Pittsburgh, Pettersson has amassed an impressive record of 14 goals and 133 points in 444 games. As he enters the 2024-25 season, the 28-year-old defenseman is poised to maintain his stellar performance and contribute significantly to the Penguins’ success on the ice.

Among other notable players who have worn the #28 jersey for the Penguins, Gordie Roberts, Kjell Samuelsson, and Michael Roszival deserve honorable mentions for their contributions to the team.

As the Penguins continue to honor their past by recognizing the best players to wear each jersey number, the legacy of Marcus Pettersson as the standout #28 player in team history remains a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the ice.