Jordan Staal likes sound of new title

Jordan Staal figures he's heard just about every question from the media about being a Staal and playing against his brothers in the NHL and the family and growing up in Thunder Bay.

But here was a new one: how does it feel to be called Uncle Jordan?

"That's awesome. Definitely different," a smiling Staal said today after the Pittsburgh Penguins morning skate.

Eric Staal and his wife, Tanya, recently celebrated the birth of their first child, Parker Lucas. That made Jordan, Marc and Jared Staal new uncles.

"It's obviously a blessing and a miracle and really exciting for our family," Jordan said.

Jordan said he hasn't yet been able to see or hold his nephew. Tanya and the baby are in Thunder Bay, so he will miss seeing Parker this trip through Raleigh.

"I don't think I'll get to see him until March, so it's kind of a bummer," he said.

Jordan will see a lot of Eric tonight on the ice, of course, just as they did in the Eastern Conference finals in May. But it will be more about winning a hockey game. The Pens, after their run to the Stanley Cup last year, have been able to avoid the Stanley Cup hangover thus far, starting 5-1.

"It's so early in the season and obviously we've had a good start, but it's something this team has always thrived on: new challenges," Jordan said. "That was another challenge put in front of us -- the hangover.

"I think we accomplished a lot last year but at the same time we want to accomplish more. There's always the hunger for more."

Speaking of hunger, Jordan, Eric and their dad, Henry, dined together Tuesday night at Nina's in Raleigh. And who paid the tab?

"Home brother always pays for it," Jordan said, flashing another smile.