The recent passing of Ray Shero has left a profound impact on the Pittsburgh Penguins' locker room, resonating deeply with the team's core stars: Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. Shero, who took over as the Penguins' general manager in 2006, orchestrated the franchise’s thrilling ascent to the 2008 Stanley Cup final and the victorious 2009 Cup championship.
Sidney Crosby, the Penguins' stalwart center, fondly remembers Shero's open-door policy during his early NHL days. "He encouraged me to talk to him," Crosby shared, highlighting the ease with which Shero made himself approachable. Young players often find the idea of speaking with a GM intimidating, but Shero broke that barrier by actively involving Crosby in discussions about team expectations.
This mentorship laid the groundwork for Crosby's eventual rise to leadership, beginning when Shero suggested he take on the captaincy. Initially hesitant, Crosby engaged in a series of discussions with Shero and coach Michel Therrien, eventually stepping into the role as the youngest captain in NHL history. "Getting confidence from Ray was huge," Crosby reflected, emphasizing Shero’s vital role in this career milestone.
Shero stood by Crosby during challenging times as well, particularly through his severe concussion and neck issues that restricted his play across two seasons. Crosby appreciated the consistent communication and support during this challenging period, stating that Shero was instrumental in navigating such unprecedented challenges.
Evgeni Malkin, another pillar of the Penguins' success, also shared poignant memories of Shero from the time he transitioned from Russia to the NHL in 2006. "He's probably the first guy who texted me when I was in Russia," Malkin recalled, highlighting the personal touch Shero extended from afar.
Once Malkin arrived, Shero ensured he had everything necessary to acclimate, including arranging for a translator and signing fellow Russian Sergei Gonchar to ease Malkin's transition. Shero's efforts were pivotal in Malkin’s successful assimilation and career.
Malkin’s relationship with Shero blossomed beyond mere professional boundaries. Shero was integral in securing Malkin a substantial five-year, $43.5 million contract, marking a significant step in the player's career. Malkin remembers Shero as an "amazing guy" who laid the foundation for their Stanley Cup victory together.
Defenseman Kris Letang also pays tribute to Shero's influence during his early career. Letang debuted in Shero's first season, and credits him for providing the opportunities that fueled his development.
He noted how Shero was instrumental in nurturing the young core of the team, helping them mature both on and off the ice. Letang emphasizes a key moment in 2009 when Shero entrusted him with an expanded role, culminating in a Stanley Cup win that year.
"Winning the Stanley Cup is special," Letang reminisced, underscoring how Shero's trust in his abilities was a defining moment. Shero's faith kept Letang in Pittsburgh, anchoring him for additional eight years and shaping both his professional journey and personal life.
In remembering Ray Shero, Crosby, Malkin, and Letang each recount a leader who was more than just a general manager; he was a mentor and a pivotal influence in their careers, whose legacy continues to resonate within the Penguins' organization.
