Mario Lemieux's Pets

Mario Lemieux OC CQ is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player and current owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for his remarkable skill and size, Lemieux played parts of 17 seasons with the Penguins between 1984 and 2005, earning the nicknames “The Magnificent One” and “Super Mario.” His career was highlighted by leading the Penguins to consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992 and later, under his ownership, additional titles in 2009, 2016, and 2017. He is the only person to have his name on the Cup both as a player and an owner. Lemieux also led Team Canada to an Olympic gold medal in 2002, a championship at the 2004 World Cup of Hockey, and a Canada Cup in 1987.

Lemieux’s individual achievements in the NHL are numerous and distinguished. He won the Lester B. Pearson Award four times, the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player three times, the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s points leader six times, and the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoffs MVP in 1991 and 1992. Notably, he is the only player to score one goal in each of the five possible game situations in a single NHL game, a feat he accomplished in 1988. Despite health challenges that limited his playing time, Lemieux’s career points per game average ranks second in NHL history, only behind Wayne Gretzky.

Lemieux’s career was marked by significant collaborations and rivalries. His on-ice chemistry with fellow Penguins player Jaromir Jagr was instrumental in Pittsburgh’s success during the 1990s. Lemieux also had notable rivalries with players like Wayne Gretzky, which helped elevate the competitiveness and entertainment value of the NHL during that era. His leadership and vision extended beyond the rink, as he played a crucial role in saving the Penguins from bankruptcy in 1999 and transforming them into a successful franchise.

In recognition of his contributions to hockey, Lemieux was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame immediately after his first retirement in 1997, waiving the normal three-year waiting period. His impact on the NHL and the sport of hockey is profound, with many considering him one of the greatest players of all time.