We thought about keeping the Hornets nickname, but we weren't sure that an NHL expansion team could deliver for the loyal locals
JACK RILEY
The first General Manager of the Penguins on the choices of naming the NHL team
• In June 1966, Les Binkley became the first player signed by the Penguins.
The NHL held an expansion draft on June 6, 1967.

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1967-68 NHL Expansion
On February 8, 1966, The National Hockey League granted a franchise to Pittsburgh - along with the Los Angeles Kings, Philadelphia Flyers, Minnesota North Stars, St. Louis Blues and the California Golden Seals.

Owner Peter Block, with the help of State Senator Jack McGregor, formed a group of 21 investors to help start the franchise.

Playing off the Civic Arena's "Igloo" nickname, McGregor's wife, Carol, is credited naming the team. The colors were originally black and white before Jack Riley, the team's first General Manager, came up with the color scheme of Colombia blue, Navy blue and white.

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