Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko recently made a meaningful decision that reflects the profound impact of family and personal loss in the world of sports. In a heartfelt tribute to his father, Kuzmenko announced he has changed his jersey number from No. 10 to No. 62, a number rich in significance tied to both his father's legacy and his family's history.
Honoring a Legacy Amidst Tragedy
The 30-year-old player, who had been wearing No. 10, expressed that it no longer held importance to him following the tragic passing of his father. “My usual number is 96,” Kuzmenko explained in an interview with Josh Yohe of The Athletic. “I can't use it, and I understand No. 10, it's not important to me. I like it in my life and the big things.” This year marks a particularly poignant time for Kuzmenko, as he reflects on the weight of personal loss while navigating the rigors of a professional sports career.
His father's death, which occurred during a recent fishing trip in Siberia on September 23, 2023, was a devastating event that left Kuzmenko reeling. In his decision to adopt No. 62, Kuzmenko revealed that the number holds deep personal significance as it corresponds to his father's age at the time of death and coincidentally is also his mother’s birth year of 1962. “And today we have (20)26 years,” he noted, revealing a powerful connection to his family's chronology through the lens of a jersey number.
A Return to Practice and Team Support
Following his time away from the team to grieve and process his father's tragic death, Kuzmenko has made his way back to the Penguins' practice sessions. Head coach Dan Muse expressed relief and support for the forward’s return. “He's obviously been in our thoughts here while he was away,” Muse remarked, as reported by Michelle Crechiolo from the team's official website. “We're really happy that he's back here – just being in the building, around his teammates, and getting to skate.” The coach's sentiments echo the collective feelings of the Penguins organization, who have rallied around Kuzmenko to provide support during this challenging time.
Community Support During Difficult Times
During his leave, Kuzmenko received an outpouring of support from fans and the hockey community. In his statements, he took time to appreciate the many messages he received across social media platforms. “I want to say thank you for everyone who supported me. And I want to say thank you in the hockey world because I’ve seen the messages,” he shared. The vast network of support showcases just how tight-knit the hockey community can be, providing comfort in the face of unthinkable hardships. “I’m sorry, I can't answer everyone,” he added, reflecting on the overwhelming volume of goodwill he received. “And I want to say thank you.”
Kuzmenko's NHL Journey
Entering his fifth NHL season and his first with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Kuzmenko is looking to leave a notable mark during the upcoming season. The versatile forward signed a one-year contract worth $5 million with the Penguins on July 1, 2023, as the franchise looks to bolster its roster. Previously, Kuzmenko played for the Los Angeles Kings, where he recorded an impressive 13 goals and 12 assists in 52 games during the 2025-26 season. His ability to perform on the ice is now underscored by a personal drive that comes from a place of profound love and memories.
Looking Ahead
As Kuzmenko steps onto the ice for the Penguins this season, the significance of No. 62 will accompany him as a tribute to his father's memory. It serves as a reminder of resilience, familial bonds, and the strength that can be drawn from the challenges we face. While he grapples with the pain of loss, Kuzmenko’s determination to honor his father through this small gesture speaks volumes about the character and spirit of athletes both on and off the field.
As the hockey world eagerly anticipates Kuzmenko’s performances, fans can feel assured that every time he dons the No. 62 jersey, it will symbolize love, remembrance, and an abiding tribute to a father whose legacy will undoubtedly inspire his son as he competes at the highest levels of professional sports.
