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Penguins Forward Andrei Kuzmenko Changes Jersey Number to Honor Father Killed in Bear Attack
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko has switched his jersey number to 62 to honor his late father, Alexander, who died in a bear attack in Siberia last month. Kuzmenko returned to the team on Friday and addressed the media ahead of Saturday's game against the Montreal Canadiens.
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko has changed his jersey number to honor his father, Alexander, who was killed in a bear attack in Siberia last month. Kuzmenko returned to the team on Friday after taking time away to be with his family and addressed reporters at the club's practice facility ahead of Saturday's game against the Montreal Canadiens.
Kuzmenko, 30, who is in his first season with the Penguins, explained that his father was on a fishing trip when the attack occurred. «My father go permit fishing with friends, and he stayed in the water,» Kuzmenko said. «And bear stand behind him and attack. And my father fight the bear one hour, 10 minutes and he still lived after two days.» The forward, visibly composed despite the circumstances, said he wanted to speak with the media because he understood that reporters have a job to do. He also thanked everyone for the support he has received since the tragedy.
Kuzmenko had worn No. 96 at all of his previous NHL stops, including the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings. Upon signing with the Penguins, he was preparing to use No. 10. Instead, he will wear No. 62, a number that carries deep personal significance. His father was 62 years old at the time of his death, and his mother was born in 1962.
The decision to switch numbers is a quiet but meaningful tribute to a man Kuzmenko described as a central figure in his life. The Penguins organization has offered its support to Kuzmenko as he navigates the loss while continuing his professional career. The team has not announced any further plans for a formal tribute, but Kuzmenko's choice to wear No. 62 ensures his father's memory will be part of every game he plays this season.
Kuzmenko's path to the NHL has been unconventional. He spent several seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League before arriving in North America ahead of the 2022-23 season. Since then, he has appeared in 271 NHL games, recording 182 points, including 85 goals and 97 assists. His offensive production and creative playmaking have made him a valuable addition to the Penguins' lineup.
Saturday's game against the Canadiens will be Kuzmenko's first since returning to the team. While the focus will be on his play, his decision to change numbers has already resonated with fans and teammates, who have expressed their support. The Penguins are expected to continue their season with Kuzmenko in the lineup, wearing No. 62 in honor of his father.
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