Best Penguins by Jersey Number: #41
The Pittsburgh Penguins have a rich history of talented players who have donned the black and gold jerseys over the years. Today, we delve into the legacy of the best player to wear the number 41 for the Penguins.
Since 2002, seven players have worn the number 41 for the Penguins. It all began with forward Shane Endicott, who wore the number for just four games. Other notable players who have sported this number include Jocelyn Thibault, Martin Skoula, and Daniel Sprong. However, when it comes to determining the best player to wear the number 41 in Penguins’ history, one name stands out – defenseman Robert Bortuzzo.
Bortuzzo was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He spent parts of four seasons with the team from 2011 to 2015 before being traded to the St. Louis Blues. During his time in Pittsburgh, Bortuzzo showcased his reliability on the ice, particularly in his defensive play. While not known for his offensive prowess, he was a solid presence in his own end and was not afraid to drop the gloves when necessary.
Despite his primary focus on defense, Bortuzzo did contribute sporadically on the offensive end, tallying four goals and 20 points in 113 games with the Penguins. One notable highlight was scoring his first NHL goal against legendary goaltender Martin Brodeur, a memorable moment in his career.
In a trade that sent him to St. Louis in exchange for defenseman Ian Cole, Bortuzzo continued to make his mark in the NHL. He spent a decade with the Blues before being traded to the New York Islanders during the 2023-24 season. In the summer of 2024, Bortuzzo signed a one-year, two-way deal with the Utah Hockey Club, showcasing his continued dedication to the sport.
While Bortuzzo’s tenure in Pittsburgh may have been relatively short compared to his time with other teams, his impact on the Penguins’ defense and his willingness to stand up for his teammates make him a standout player in the franchise’s history.
Honorable mentions for the best player to wear the number 41 for the Penguins go to Jocelyn Thibault and Daniel Sprong. As we continue to celebrate the history of the Pittsburgh Penguins, it’s clear that each player who has worn the black and gold has left their mark on the storied franchise.