The Pittsburgh Penguins’ recent game with the Washington Capitals didn’t sound the same this time. And it’s not because they lost to Washington, but they lost a voice that could no longer be heard. Mike Lange was the soundtrack of the Penguins hockey for almost 50 years. The PPG Paints Arena might be loud, but it still hushed his signature calls, marking an end to his 46 years with the team.Lange’s beautiful calls brought penguins’ hockey to life every time. “The Californian quickly became a quintessential Pittsburgher”, said the Penguins in a statement. Lange blended humor, catchy phrases, and the local charm all together with his commentary. The Pittsburgh community has admired his energetic storytelling, like “Smiling like a butcher’s dog” while celebrating a goal or “Beaten like a rented mule” when he went on to mock the opponents’ side! A bold voice that turned the game into an experience not just for the players but for every spectator.It was before the game between the Penguins and the Washington Capitals that Lange was honored with an emotional ceremony that attracted his kin—old mates, family members, and a few prominent players, the captains. “Hockey fans, at this time, we invite you to share your phone lights with us as we draw your attention to the Zamboni Quarter,” the host requested the audience. Among those called upon were Joe Brand, Josh Getzoff, Eddie Olczyk, Paul Steigerwald, and Phil Bork, who were connected to Lange’s iconic catchphrase, “It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh!” A portrait of Lange was kept in the Zamboni Quarter along with a vase of flowers and his headphones, almost scenic. In a short while, his family, including two sons, Tanner and Ian, with their wives and children, were called to the podium. And the captains themselves made their significant presence. Sidney Crosby, Evgeny Malkin, and Chris Letang, who greeted Lange’s family and paid their tribute.Lange spent nearly five decades in broadcasting. As for the Penguins, he covered five Stanley Cup championships with his unique delivery of narratives, which served as the soundtrack for iconic moments. There was a short clip played by the organizers towards the end of the ceremony, with fans admiring his iconic sayings. “My favorite one was scratch my back with a hacksaw. Those quirks and that excitement and everything, I think just helped make him who he was, and it was awesome. I go back and think of all the years that I’ve been here,” one fan recalled.There were placards and messages that flashed throughout the arena while everyone honored the legend. The stands erupted in applause as fans paid their tribute by displaying heartwarming messages, while one of his sons flashed “Thank you Pittsburgh”. There wasn’t a dry eye in the arena as one of Lange’s sons dabbed off a tear drop from the corner of his eyes. It was truly an emotional moment before the match. Reflecting on the lasting impact of Lange’s voice, here’s what the penguin players have to recall. The moments that boosted up their spirits before every match!Mike Lange surfaced as a role modelThe Penguins players believed to have a major influence on Lange’s sayings on their careers. For players like Malkin, Letang, and Crosby, his commentary was a constant fuel of motivation that made them perform well in their matches. Malkin recalled, “He’s probably the most popular voice in Pittsburgh. He (said), ‘Malkin, make me a milkshake!’ It’s great for me”. He called his death a tough loss for everyone associated with Pittsburgh hockey.For Crosby, it took a heavy toll on the heart. He engaged in a conversation with Josh Yohe, the beat writer who reflected Crosby’s feelings. He wrote, “I talked with Sidney Crosby late tonight and he’s taking the news of Mike Lange’s passing pretty hard, as is everyone who knew him. Mike had a special relationship with Mario, Jagr, Sid and Geno. They are the five biggest stars in franchise history, after all.”And for all the other players who gathered in the dressing room, Lange’s death reflected on the profound role that his voice played in their careers. To this, Letang said, “Every time you hear replays of big memories, like Stanley Cup wins or big goals by Mario or stuff like that, that’s his voice. So, it means a lot for the city and for all of the players that are in this dressing room.” Although his passing left a void, the impact of his words will forever be a part of the Penguins. The emotional pregame ceremony at the PPG Paints Arena perfectly captured the sentiment. Concluding the tribute, the host said, “While his passing brings a sadness that cannot be overstated, we know he would rather we celebrate his legacy and the role he played in creating Penguins hockey memories that will last forever.” The post Pittsburgh Penguins Pay Emotional Tribute to Late Broadcaster Mike Lange’s Legacy appeared first on EssentiallySports.