Pittsburgh Penguins second-round pick Markus Ruck is still processing being selected by one of the NHL's most popular franchises. 

Right after his name was announced, the Penguins captain, Sidney Crosby, personally welcomed Markus to the organization through a phone call. An X post from 93.7 The Fan captured Markus' reaction to joining the Penguins, speaking with Crosby, and explaining his experience.

"To be honest, my first thought once I learned about the draft was obviously Crosby,” he begins. "That's a guy most people think of when you think of this organization, and to get the call from him is so special. It was something I've always dreamed of. Still can't get over that."

Crosby has been the face of the Penguins for almost two decades. He helped the team win three Stanley Cups in 2009, 2016, and 2017. Crosby made history at age 21 by becoming the youngest captain ever to win the Stanley Cup.

For the 39th pick, who’s still getting used to his new life as a professional player, a personal welcome from someone like Crosby goes way deeper.

He then welcomed Markus' twin brother, Liam, too, personally welcoming both players as soon as they were selected.

Markus was acquired by Pittsburgh in the second round after going through an excellent season with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League. He led the WHL with 108 points, which included 21 goals and 87 assists. 

His twin brother, Liam, had also been selected by the Penguins just one day earlier in the first round. Both brothers were reunited in the same organization in the end. 

Twins Begin Penguins' Journey Together

Markus' play has drawn a good amount of attention throughout the league, and even the evaluators have described him as a player who can play at a high level. He had certain traits that made him one of the draft's best players. 

He had previously played at the center but has also contributed on the wing, and he continued to be dynamic. But one common concern with him was his skating. Markus would need to continue improving, as highlighted by Penguins director of player development Tom Kostopoulos on Monday, June 29.

According to an article from the NHL, at the Penguins' development camp, Markus and Liam were split into different practice groups.

“I think it’s for sure important to learn to play apart from each other,” Markus said. “In case of an injury or we’re not on the same team, for whatever reason, it’s very important to play apart."

Although the separation was very brief, the two reunited later in the week for drills. The Penguins clearly view both twins as two important players for whom they have long-term plans.

What do you think of the addition of the Ruck brothers? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at NHL Fan Central!

Written by

Aadhya Nalla

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar