Former Penguins Great Lowell MacDonald Passes Away
I was saddened to learn that former Penguins star Lowell MacDonald passed away on December 28 at the age of 84. In his honor, I’m posting a feature about Lowell from my book, 100 Things Penguins Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die.
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When Lowell MacDonald was awarded the Masterton Trophy in 1973, it was a case of quiet vindication for a player who had scaled some huge hurdles in order to pursue his hockey dreams. Indeed, the trophy seemed to have been created with MacDonald in mind. Few players in the history of the game have displayed more perseverance and dedication on the road to stardom.
Following a promising junior career that culminated in a Memorial Cup triumph for his Hamilton Red Wings, MacDonald began his pro career with Detroit. Although undeniably talented, the youngster had a difficult time cracking the Red Wings’ experienced lineup. He enjoyed greater success with the team’s AHL affiliate, the Pittsburgh Hornets. In three seasons with the minor-league club Lowell scored 77 goals, including 31 during the 1963-64 campaign.
MacDonald finally became a full-time player in the NHL in 1967 when he was drafted by Los Angeles.