Definition
Frank Pietrangelo is a Canadian former professional ice hockey goaltender who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the late 1980s and 1990s.
Overview
Born on May 31 1964 in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, Pietrangelo began his junior career with the Niagara Falls Flyers before being selected in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1986‑87 season and remained with the organization until 1992, serving primarily as a backup goaltender and appearing in 58 regular‑season games. Pietrangelo later played for the New York Islanders (1992‑93) and the Florida Panthers (1995‑96).
He is most remembered for scoring a goal on December 16 1996 while with the Panthers, becoming the second NHL goaltender to directly shoot the puck into the opponent’s net. Pietrangelo was a member of the Penguins’ 1991‑92 Stanley Cup‑winning roster, though he did not appear in the playoffs. After retiring from playing, he worked as a goaltending coach for junior teams, including the Niagara IceDogs, and has contributed as a broadcaster and analyst for hockey media outlets.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “Pietrangelo” is of Italian origin, derived from the given name “Pietro” (Peter) combined with “angelo,” meaning “angel.” The construction suggests “Peter’s angel” or “angel of Peter.” As a personal name, “Frank” is a common English diminutive of “Francis.”
Characteristics
- Playing style: Pietrangelo was noted for his positional awareness and composure in the net, attributes typical of a reliable backup goaltender.
- Physical attributes: He stood 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall and weighed approximately 190 lb (86 kg) during his playing career.
- Career statistics (NHL): 133 regular‑season games played, with a career goals‑against average (GAA) of 3.61 and a save percentage of .884. He recorded one NHL goal.
- Notable achievements: Scoring a goaltender’s goal (1996), Stanley Cup champion as a member of the 1991‑92 Pittsburgh Penguins, and later contributions to player development as a coach.
Related Topics
- National Hockey League (NHL)
- Goaltending in ice hockey
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Florida Panthers
- List of NHL players who have scored a goal
- Niagara IceDogs (Ontario Hockey League)
- Stanley Cup champions (1992)