Penguins History: The Century Line

Throughout hockey history there have been many storied line combinations. The powerhouse Red Wings of the early 1950s boasted the “Production Line” of Gordie Howe, Sid Abel and “Terrible” Ted Lindsay. Later in the decade Montreal rode the stellar play of Maurice “Rocket” Richard and his “Punch Line” mates to Stanley Cup glory.

Unlike their famous counterparts, the Penguins’ first great line came together almost by accident. Each member was cast-off from another team. Yet together they became one of the most dynamic combinations in team history.

The first to join the fold was right wing Jean Pronovost. The kid brother of Hall-of-Fame defenseman Marcel Pronovost, Jean was originally signed by…