Born October 5, 1965 in Montreal, Quebec - Mario Lemieux, Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame center, team owner and a 3-time NHL MVP, of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Super Mario did it all, he coule skate , score and do the unbelievable acts that make the legendary ones great. The amazing Number 66 was a generational talent. He helped the Penguins to multiple Stanley Cups as a player and an owner and his story is fully tol in the collection of posts assembled here.
Sports History
Mario LemieuxMario Lemieux Super Mario Hockey Sensation
Drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1984, Lemieux entered a struggling franchise desperate for a savior. He didn't disappoint. Blessed with a rare combination of size, speed, and an unmatched hockey IQ, Lemieux transformed the Penguins into a contender. His offensive prowess was breathtaking, his deft puck handling and laser-like shot leaving opposing goaltenders bewildered.
However, Lemieux's career was tragically intertwined with chronic back issues. Despite battling debilitating injuries throughout his prime, he led the Penguins to their first Stanley Cup championship in 1991. He hoisted the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, a testament to his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage.
A series of setbacks forced Lemieux into early retirement in 1997, leaving the hockey world stunned. The Penguins floundered in his absence, the void he left seemingly impossible to fill. Yet, in a story defying all odds, Lemieux returned to the ice in 1999 – this time as a player-owner. His comeback was nothing short of miraculous. He defied expectations, showcasing his brilliance despite the years away from the game.
Partnered with fellow superstar Jaromir Jagr, Lemieux led the Penguins to their second Stanley Cup victory in 2000. He cemented his legacy as a player who could overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Lemieux eventually retired for good in 2006, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond his two Stanley Cup victories and numerous individual accolades. He was a pioneer in advocating for players' rights, a charismatic leader who inspired teammates and captivated fans.
Mario Lemieux's impact on hockey is undeniable. He redefined offensive excellence, leaving a lasting impact on the way the game is played.
Today in Hockey History - May 28
The Hockey Writers website shares nuggets like:
1992 - In Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final. Mario Lemieux scored a pair of goals in the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 3-1 win over the Chicago Blackhawks.
2003 - Patrick Roy announced his retirement after 19 seasons in the league with the Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche.
Today in Hockey History - May 26
The Hockey Writers website shares a few of the gems of the day for May 26 such as:
1986 - Mario Lemieux won the Lester Pearson Award.
1992 - Mario Lemieux lights the lamp with just 13 seconds remaining for the Penguins to secure a 5-4 win over Chicago, and end their 11 game playoff win streak.
These stories and more await.
May 11 Blake caps NHL Career with 11th Championship
The NHL History of May 17
The NHL official website shares the May 17 history of the Islanders fourth consecutive Stanley Cup, Super Mario scores in a seventh straight playoff game for the Pens, and Dryden becomes the 1st goalie to get an assist in Cup Final
May 16 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 5 - 9 - 22 May 16, 1927 - New York Yankee outfielder, Bob Meusel, wearing Number 5 stole 2nd base, 3rd base and&nbs...
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May 15 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. May 15, 1912 - Detroit Tigers star slugger Ty Cobb, let's an obnoxious fan get to him and the player leaped the rail...
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May 14 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 3 - 37 - 7 May 14, 1913 - Washington Senator pitcher Walter Johnson, had his amazing MLB record of scoreless innings str...
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May 13 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 22 - 21 May 13, 1942 - Who says pitchers can't hit? Boston Braves Pitcher, Number 22, Jim Tobin smacked 3 ball...
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May 12 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. 27 - 17 - 14 May 12, 1910 - Ace pitcher and future Hall of Fame player of the Philadelphia Athletics, Charles Bender thr...
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May 11 Numbers
Sports history is made every day of the year. We will preserve at least a small sampling from some great athletes every day based on the uniform number they wore. May 11, 1897 - Washington Senators catcher Charles Duke Farrell threw out 8 Baltimore runners that attempted to steal a b...
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