PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Penguins held a heartfelt tribute to renowned broadcaster Mike Lange before their game against Washington on Saturday evening. Lange, who passed away this past Wednesday at the age of 76, had an illustrious career spanning 46 years with the Penguins and five decades in the field of broadcasting before he retired in 2021.
During the tribute, Lange’s family was invited onto the ice, including his two sons and their families, along with several of his former broadcasting colleagues. Penguins’ captain Sidney Crosby, along with teammates Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, welcomed the family and stood by them as a touching video played, showcasing Lange’s memorable phrases, including favorites like “It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh” and “he beat him like a rented mule.”
Fans honored Lange’s legacy with an extended standing ovation, filling the arena with applause, while one of Lange’s sons displayed a sign that expressed gratitude with the words “Thank you Pittsburgh.” In remembrance, a large photo of Lange was placed next to a table adorned with a vase of yellow roses and headphones located in the lower concourse of PPG Paints Arena. Additionally, another arrangement of flowers and a set of headphones was positioned within one of the press level radio booths, which was named in Lange’s honor in 2019.
The Penguins also showcased their tribute on the ice by wearing stickers on the backs of their black helmets that featured a set of headphones encircled by a microphone on a gold background. Lange’s engaging storytelling and distinctive phrases chronicled the team’s journey from struggling franchise to becoming five-time Stanley Cup champions. His voice became synonymous with legendary players, from Hall of Famer Mario Lemieux and his longtime partner Jaromir Jagr to current stars like Crosby and Malkin.
Lange was recognized for his dedication to sports broadcasting when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001, receiving the prestigious Foster Hewitt Award for his excellence in the field.
