Sidney Crosby paid tribute to Lowell MacDonald, a former NHL player from Nova Scotia who passed away recently, acknowledging him as a source of inspiration for his own career. Crosby highlighted the rarity of NHL players hailing from Nova Scotia and the impact MacDonald had on him as a fellow Pittsburgh native.
MacDonald, who was 84 years old, enjoyed a successful NHL career spanning almost 15 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Born in Thorburn, N.S., MacDonald always considered the province his home, regularly returning with his wife, Joyce Smith MacDonald, to their residence in Little Harbour, N.S. An ardent golfer, MacDonald frequented the Abercrombie Golf and Country Club.
Throughout his NHL tenure, MacDonald accumulated 180 goals and 390 points in 506 games before concluding his career in the 1977-78 season. Crosby expressed admiration for MacDonald’s legacy and his significant contribution to Nova Scotia’s hockey heritage.
MacDonald’s obituary highlighted his dedication to education, as he pursued bachelor’s and master’s degrees during his NHL career, attending college during 14 summers. Post-retirement, MacDonald transitioned into a teaching role, serving as a teacher, hockey coach, and athletic director at the University School of Milwaukee for nearly two decades. In recognition of his achievements, MacDonald was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame in 1982.
Despite facing challenges such as knee injuries during his playing days, MacDonald displayed resilience and perseverance. He overcame adversity to secure the Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy in the 1972-73 season, recognizing his exemplary sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. Bruce Rainnie, the president of the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, praised MacDonald’s unwavering commitment to the sport and his positive influence on aspiring athletes.
MacDonald’s remarkable journey from a small town in Thorburn to NHL stardom serves as a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and determination. A celebration of MacDonald’s life is scheduled to take place in Little Harbour later this summer.