Pittsburgh Review

Conor Timmins, a defenseman for the Penguins acquired from Toronto during the trade deadline, is known for having two different-colored eyes, a fact he often shares with a smile.

Timmins grew up in Ontario, near Niagara Falls, and although he spends offseasons in Toronto, he still visits his hometown. His parents own a butcher shop called Big Red Markets. "It was great. We were pretty well-known all-around town," Timmins said, adding he enjoyed meals of steak and chicken from the shop. His preferred steakhouse order is a ribeye, medium-rare, which he describes as "pretty classic."

Timmins has an older sister in marketing in Montreal and a younger sister who is a consultant in Toronto. His father, Dan, owned and coached the local Junior B team, the Thorold Blackhawks. "I grew up basically in the rink," said Timmins, recalling how he started playing at age four and having his dad as his coach. "He's been in my corner," Timmins remarked, sharing how he discusses games with his father after letting emotions settle.

Dan's advice to Timmins reflects the philosophy of focusing on what one can control. "He's just been always very big on telling me to control what I can control," Timmins said, noting the importance of attitude and work ethic in overcoming career adversity.

Timmins was drafted by Kyle Dubas when Dubas managed the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. "Then, he obviously traded for me when he was in Toronto," said Timmins, appreciating Dubas' belief in his abilities.

Dubas, now Pittsburgh’s President of Hockey Operations and GM, acknowledged Timmins’ perseverance through injury setbacks, including a concussion that cost him an entire season. Reflecting on this period, Timmins drew inspiration from Sidney Crosby's return to hockey in 2011. "I was at a minor hockey practice...that’s all they were talking about," shared Timmins.

As a passionate Maple Leafs fan in his youth, Timmins admired Tomas Kaberle. "When I was growing up, he was a big player for them," he said, appreciating Kaberle's skills.

Outside of hockey, Timmins enjoys watching shows, recently starting "Severance," and classic films such as "Shawshank Redemption" and the "Rocky" series. "I did go see the steps the first time I was there (to play the Flyers). That was pretty cool," he shared.

The necklace Timmins wears features St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. "So, just kind of take him with me through my journey," said Timmins.