Before he was a Pittsburgh sports legend, Max Talbot led his junior team to two championship appearances, becoming the first player to earn back to back Guy Lafleur trophies as the tournaments most valuable player. He made his NHL debut in 2005-06 as a 21 year-old, and made his mark as a reliable bottom six grinder. His best season with the Pens came in 2007-08, when he tallied 12 goals and 14 assists for 26 points, and while his offensive prowess from juniors didn’t translate to the NHL, his energy, relentless play, and practical jokes made up for it. He once took to the ice for an open practice in Toronto wearing Sidney Crosby’s gear, drawing cheers from the crowd who was none the wiser. The following season, Talbot scored the only two goals in the Penguins game seven victory over the Red Wings in the ‘09 Stanley Cup finals to earn himself a place in Pittsburgh sports history; an unlikely hero against the well-oiled machine that was Detroit. He’d stick around for three more seasons before signing with the rival Flyers in 2011-12, and after bouncing around the league and international leagues, he retired after a ten year pro career.

This jersey was worn during the most productive stretch of his most productive season, and is hammered with wear. Worn for approximately 30 games, the right arm sports a repair near the cuff, and the left shoulder is held together by a large patch. Un-repaired holes dot the front and back of the jersey, and the kit is frayed from heavy use. It is matched to several photos from the the 2007-08 season.