The Pittsburgh Penguins have held host to skilled Czech players, this article highlights their all-time best Czech starting lineup. Throughout their storied history, the Pittsburgh Penguins have held host to some of the most talented players from across the world. Among these stars, Czech-born players have made significant contributions to the team’s success. From impressive goaltending to defensive stalwarts and franchise forwards, these players have etched their names into Penguins history. This article highlights the all-time Czech Republic starting lineup for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Goaltender – Tomáš Vokoun
Tomáš Vokoun played a crucial role in the Penguins’ memorable 2013 Stanley Cup Playoff run. The Penguins acquired him to provide stability and veteran leadership in goal. After starter Marc-André Fleury struggled in the 2013 playoffs, Vokoun took over as the starting netminder. He stepped up and lead the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. His clutch goaltending and calm demeanour helped the Penguins push deep into the playoffs. Additionally, Vokoun pitched an impressive .919 save percentage with 13 wins and 4 losses during the regular season. Although his tenure in Pittsburgh was brief, his impact was felt, and his contributions make him the all-time best goaltender to play for the Penguins from the Czech Republic.
Left Defense – Josef Melichar
Josef Melichar was a steady defensive presence for the Penguins during the early 2000s. He was known for his solid, stay-at-home defensive style. Melichar provided stability on the blue line during a challenging period for the team before Sidney Crosby and the new stars took over. Melichar’s physical play and shot-blocking ability made him a key part of the Penguins’ defence. Melichar’s long run with the Penguins, playing in 310 games with the organization, earns him the spot as the all-time best-left defence to play from the Czech Republic for the team.
Right Defense – Michal Rozsíval
Michal Rozsíval is another key Czech player who made a mark with the Penguins. Playing 237 games for the team, Rozsíval brought a mix of offensive skill and defensive reliability to the Penguins’ blue line. Fans knew him for his smooth skating and puck-moving ability. Rozsíval contributed 65 points during his time with the Penguins. His well-rounded game and ability to play on both ends of the ice make him the all-time best Czech right-defenceman to play for the Penguins.
Left Wing – Martin Straka
Martin Straka is one of the most skilled Czech players ever to play for the Penguins. In Straka’s two stints with the team, he brought a great deal of skill to the offensive group. He was known for his speed, vision, and playmaking ability. Straka was a key player on some dangerous Penguins offensive groups, scoring 442 points over 560 games. His ability to create plays made him an important member of the team. As such, Straka’s contributions to the Penguins solidify his place as the all-time best Czech left winger in team history.
Center – Robert Lang
Robert Lang was a consistent presence for the Penguins throughout his time with the team, contributing to their offensive efforts. People recognized him for his smart playmaking ability and a penchant for goal-scoring. Lang centred some of the team’s most dangerous Penguins lines in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Scoring 261 points in 345 games for the Penguins, Lang was a key contributor for the team. His ability to score and create opportunities for his linemates earns him the spot as the all-time best Czech center for the Penguins.
Right Wing – Jaromír Jágr
The best Czech player of all time, and one of the best overall players of all time. This list would not be complete without Jaromir Jagr. Arguably one of the greatest players in NHL history, Jágr’s time with the Penguins is well-remembered. He was recognized for his incredible skill, strength, and hockey IQ. Jágr was one of the league’s top scorers during the 1990s. Over 806 games with the Penguins, Jágr recorded an astounding 1,079 points, including 439 goals. His contributions helped lead the Penguins to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992. Jágr’s impact on the Penguins and the NHL as a whole is immeasurable, making him not only the all-time best Czech right winger for the Penguins, but one of the greatest players in hockey history.
Conclusion
The legacy of Czech players within the Pittsburgh Penguins organization is astounding. From Tomáš Vokoun’s playoff heroics to Jaromír Jágr’s dominant play, each of these players played crucial roles in helping shape the Penguins’ history. As the NHL continues to become more diverse, it is important to recognize a nation that has contributed many important players to the team.
Main photo by: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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