2. Patric “Horny” Hornqvist: Toughness and Tenacity
On June 27, 2014, the Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade that would significantly boost their roster's toughness and scoring depth. Patric Hornqvist, along with Nick Spaling, was acquired from the Nashville Predators in exchange for James Neal.
Hornqvist brought a gritty, relentless playing style that quickly became a cornerstone of the Penguins' strategies. He made an immediate impact in his first season with the team, tallying 25 goals and 26 assists in 64 regular-season games.
Although the Penguins were eliminated in the first round of the 2015 playoffs, Hornqvist's physical presence and ability to score crucial goals were evident. His performance laid the groundwork for his pivotal role in the team's future successes.
In the 2015-16 season, Hornqvist continued to be a force on the ice, recording 22 goals and 29 assists in 82 regular-season games. His contributions were even more pronounced during the playoffs, where he notched 9 goals and 4 assists in 24 games.
Hornqvist's net-front presence and relentless forechecking were critical in the Penguins' Stanley Cup victory, making life difficult for opposing goaltenders and defenders.
Hornqvist's defining moment came during the 2016-17 season when he scored the Stanley Cup-clinching goal in Game 6 against his former team, the Nashville Predators. There is nothing more poetic than that.
His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations was invaluable, and his 5 goals and 4 assists in 19 playoff games underscored his importance to the team's success. Beyond the stats, Hornqvist's tenacity and leadership on and off the ice made him a beloved figure in the locker room and among fans.
His tenure with the Penguins exemplifies the impact of a player who combines skill with sheer determination. His ability to perform in critical moments and his unwavering work ethic were instrumental in the Penguins' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories.
Hornqvist's story is a testament to the value of grit and heart in achieving playoff success, solidifying his place as one of the most impactful offseason acquisitions in Penguins' history.