From Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to Pittsburgh: Hockey Legends Who Played for Both Penguins Teams

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are known as the training ground for future NHL stars. Serving as the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate for the Pittsburgh Penguins, the WBS Penguins have helped foster an environment where talented players can develop their skills and prepare for the high-paced competition of the National Hockey League (NHL). Over the years, numerous hockey greats have graced the ice for both Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Pittsburgh, leaving a lasting impression on both teams and their fans. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable players who made their mark with both Penguins organizations.

Marc-André Fleury: From Promising Prospect to Stanley Cup Champion

No conversation about iconic Penguins players is complete without mentioning Marc-André Fleury. Drafted as the first overall pick in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, Fleury began his professional career in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton before quickly proving he was destined for NHL greatness.

During his time with the WBS Penguins, Fleury’s exceptional goaltending skills were on full display. His reflexes, puck-handling ability, and natural talent laid the foundation for a storied NHL career. After transitioning to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Fleury became a backbone of the team, helping lead them to Stanley Cup victories in 2009, 2016, and 2017. His time with both teams cemented his legacy as one of the greatest goaltenders in Penguins’ history.

Fleury’s charismatic personality and unwavering dedication to his team have made him a fan favorite in both Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Pittsburgh. Even after moving on to other teams in his career, his contributions continue to be celebrated by the Penguins’ faithful.

Kris Letang: A Defensive Dynamo

Before becoming one of the NHL’s top defensemen, Kris Letang sharpened his skills with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Letang, known for his offensive prowess and skating ability, spent time in the AHL developing his game before stepping into the spotlight with Pittsburgh.

Since joining the NHL team, Letang has become a critical piece of Pittsburgh’s defensive lineup. He’s a three-time Stanley Cup champion, winning with the Penguins in 2009, 2016, and 2017. Not only has his defensive reliability earned him accolades, but his offensive contributions, particularly on the power play, have further solidified his reputation as one of the league’s elite defenders.

Penguins fans across both organizations admire Letang’s resilience and leadership. Despite facing significant challenges, including health setbacks, he continues to play at an elite level, inspiring younger players who follow in his footsteps.

Jake Guentzel: From AHL Standout to NHL Superstar

Jake Guentzel’s rise from the AHL to becoming a household name in the NHL is a testament to his hard work and natural goal-scoring ability. After honing his craft with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he displayed an impressive knack for finding the back of the net, Guentzel transitioned seamlessly to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Guentzel made an immediate impact in the NHL, particularly during the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he scored a staggering 13 goals as a rookie—tying an NHL record and helping the Penguins secure their second consecutive Stanley Cup. His offensive explosiveness, combined with his vision on the ice, has made him one of Pittsburgh’s most reliable forwards in recent years.

Guentzel’s success story underscores the important role the WBS Penguins play in preparing players for the next level. His achievements inspire countless young players who dream of making the leap from the AHL to the NHL.

Matt Murray: The Goalie with a Golden Touch

Matt Murray is another goaltender who enjoyed success at both levels of Penguins hockey. Murray’s time with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins showcased his immense potential. His calm demeanor in the net and ability to rise to the occasion quickly earned him a promotion to the NHL.

Once with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Murray wasted no time making his presence known. He backstopped the team to two consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017, becoming one of the only rookie goaltenders to achieve this feat. His ability to perform under pressure endeared him to Penguins fans, and his time spent with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton undoubtedly played a pivotal role in preparing him for NHL success.

Brian Dumoulin: A Rock on the Blue Line

Brian Dumoulin’s tenure with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins helped polish him into the steady, reliable defenseman fans see today. Known for his unshakable presence on the blue line, Dumoulin worked hard to develop his positioning, puck management, and physicality in the AHL.

With the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dumoulin has been an essential part of the team’s defensive core, playing a significant role in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. His consistency and ability to log heavy minutes are a testament to his work ethic and the strong foundation he built during his time in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

The Relationship Between the Two Teams

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are more than just an affiliate for Pittsburgh—they’re an essential piece of the Penguins organization. The AHL team provides a competitive environment where emerging talent can hone their skills, learn the systems, and prepare for the NHL’s grueling demands. Many players who have succeeded in Pittsburgh credit their time in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton as being instrumental in their development.

Seeing players rise through the ranks of the Penguins system fosters a sense of pride for fans of both teams. It creates a unique bond, allowing WBS fans to witness the early stages of a budding star’s career and Pittsburgh fans to see that talent flourish on hockey’s biggest stage.

Building a Legacy of Excellence

From Marc-André Fleury to Jake Guentzel, the list of notable players who have worn both Penguins uniforms continues to grow. These athletes exemplify dedication, resilience, and the drive to succeed at the highest level of the sport. Their journeys underscore the vital role the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins play in shaping NHL-caliber talent.

For fans of both teams, these players are more than just athletes—they’re part of a shared legacy that celebrates hard work, triumph, and the unwavering love of hockey. As the Penguins organizations continue to nurture new talent, the future promises even more players who will leave their mark on both Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Pittsburgh.

Whether you’re cheering at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza or PPG Paints Arena, the connection between these teams is something special. And who knows? The next Penguins star might already be skating in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, waiting for their chance to shine.