Amanda Kessel Special Assistant to the President of Hockey Operations and GM | Pittsburgh Penguins
Amanda Kessel Special Assistant to the President of Hockey Operations and GM | Pittsburgh Penguins
As Sidney Crosby scored his 600th career goal at PPG Paints Arena, the event was captured by two broadcasters in their respective styles. Penguins Radio Network's Joe Brand and SportsNet Pittsburgh's Josh Getzoff provided play-by-play commentary for this milestone moment.
Brand, alongside Phil Bourque, described the action from the Mike Lange Media Level: “Penguins still keep it alive. Rakell near circle to Malkin, he fires, and that goes wide... and now down to the ice goes Malkin, trying to pry a loose puck. Here's Karlsson, all alone in the slot to Crosby... HE SCORES, and that one is for history! It’s Light Up Night in Pittsburgh, and for the 600th career time, Sidney Crosby lights the lamp in black and gold ... and he does it here in Pittsburgh!”
Meanwhile, Getzoff called the play from the Captain Morgan Club with Mike Rupp: “It comes right up to Karlsson... looking for Crosby... HE SCORES! You can add another historic chapter to Sidney’s story! The 21st player ever to 600 career goals, SIR SIDNEY CROSBY!”
Both announcers reflected on calling such significant moments. Brand expressed how being part of this milestone felt like an initiation into Penguin fandom. He noted Crosby's effort as he fell while scoring: “I think the coolest thing about it was how the goal was scored, as he was falling down to the ice.”
Getzoff shared his thoughts on preparing for such milestones: “Honestly, I wouldn't say it’s all-encompassing, but it's definitely something that you think about a lot.” He emphasized wanting to do justice for players during these moments.
Crosby reached this achievement after a series of games leading up to his 600th goal. His journey included reaching other milestones earlier in the season. As Getzoff prepared for this game against Utah, he recalled advice from broadcaster Ernie Johnson: “One of the things I said to myself is... you may have a chance to get to call history – just lean into it.”
The broadcasters highlighted not only Crosby's skill but also his leadership qualities. Brand appreciated how Crosby drew a penalty leading up to his goal: “It was almost like the hockey gods making it happen. But it was also just Sid making it happen.”
Both announcers conveyed their excitement and gratitude for being part of such a historic moment in hockey.
Alerts Sign-up