Whether they were born and raised in Minnesota, or spent one year (or hockey season) residing between its borders, hockey players tend to look back fondly on their time in the State of Hockey.

The Dec. 26 National Hockey League game between Pittsburgh and Minnesota represented a type of homecoming for three players that skate for the Penguins.

NHL veteran and Madison, Wis., native Phil Kessel spent the 2005-2006 season playing for the Golden Gophers, and said after last Saturday morning's pre-game skate that he has fond memories of donning the maroon and gold.

“I played here a year, and it was a good experience for me,” Kessel said. “I’ll always hold the Gophers true to my heart.”

Penguins’ forward Matt Cullen was born in Virginia, Minn., grew up in Moorhead and said that a move back to Minnesota could be part of his family’s future.

“I love Minnesota,” Cullen said. “This is where I’ll call home after I’m done playing.”

Cullen’s youth included state titles as a Peewee and a Bantam, and three trips to the boys’ high school state tournament.

“Growing up watching the North Stars and playing in the high school state tourneys down here, it’s always a special place to me,” Cullen said. 

Pittsburgh captain and All-Star center Sidney Crosby scored a goal and added an assist in the Penguins’ 3-1 win over the Wild last Saturday, 13 years after spending the 2002-2003 season at Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault.

“It was a fun year to be here," Crosby said, alluding to the Wild’s improbable run to the Western Conference finals that season. “And obviously I had a great time at school,” Crosby added.

Crosby also said that Wild forward Zach Parise’s family made the transition from his native Cole Harbor, Nova Scotia an easier one.

“Zach’s family was great to me in my year at Shattuck,” Crosby said, adding that even after just one year of residence, the state has left a lasting impression. “It’s always kind of special to come back here.”