Sidney Crosby paid tribute to Lowell MacDonald, a former NHL player from Nova Scotia who passed away recently, acknowledging MacDonald’s influence on his own career. Crosby, a Cole Harbour native, expressed gratitude for MacDonald’s contribution to hockey from their shared home province.
MacDonald, who hailed from Thorburn, N.S., had a successful NHL career spanning nearly 15 seasons, representing teams such as the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. He maintained strong ties to Nova Scotia throughout his life, returning annually to visit his family in Little Harbour, N.S., where he enjoyed golfing at the Abercrombie Golf and Country Club.
Having scored 180 goals and 390 points in 506 NHL games, MacDonald left a lasting impact on the sport and his community. Crosby praised MacDonald as a role model and credited him for paving the way for aspiring players like himself.
Aside from his hockey career, MacDonald pursued education, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees during his NHL off-seasons. After retiring from hockey, he transitioned into teaching and coaching at the University School of Milwaukee for nearly twenty years.
Recognized for his achievements, MacDonald was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame in 1982. His resilience in overcoming knee injuries and winning the Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy exemplified his dedication to the game. Rainnie, the hall of fame’s president, lauded MacDonald’s legacy, highlighting his exceptional character and perseverance.
A celebration of MacDonald’s life will be held in Little Harbour later this year, honoring his remarkable contributions to the hockey world and beyond.