Pittsburgh Review

Owen Pickering made his NHL debut for the Pittsburgh Penguins in a game against San Jose, marking a significant milestone in his career. His family, including his mother Dana, father Tom, and brother Graeme, traveled to witness the event. "To be here tonight and to get to witness him living out his childhood dream is surreal," Tom said.

Dana had initially planned to watch Owen play for Wilkes-Barre but changed her plans upon learning of his call-up. Avery, Owen's sister and a defenseman for Colgate's women's hockey team, could not attend due to her own game against Harvard. "But her heart was here," Dana stated.

Graeme expressed admiration for Owen's dedication: "I think he's really deserving. When I look up to him, it's so cool how hard he works."

During the first intermission, the family reflected on Owen's journey and shared pride in his accomplishments. Owen took part in the traditional rookie lap without a helmet before registering his first NHL point with an assist on Jesse Puljujarvi’s goal. He described the moment: “Puck just kind of came to me, made a fake, guy bit.”

Penguins coach Sullivan praised Pickering's performance: “He defended hard... He played a calculated game, and he played with confidence.” Bryan Rust noted Owen's positive energy: “Pick in his first game tonight... He's been all smiles all day.”

Owen acknowledged nerves leading up to the game but credited his family's support throughout challenges such as injuries that kept him from previous training camps. Afterward, they planned to spend time together before departing due to limited flight availability related to Taylor Swift’s Eras tour.

Tom joked about their grocery bills due to Owen's growth spurt from 5-foot-7 during the WHL Draft year to now 6-foot-5. The family also experienced recognition at their hotel because of Owen’s past stay there.

Dana summed up their pride: “We are proud of that, the person he is.”