The association did not provide a cause of death or specify when Lemieux passed.
Lemieux appeared at the Bell Centre in Montreal on Monday, serving as a torch bearer before Game Three of the NHL Eastern Conference finals between the Montreal Canadiens and the Carolina Hurricanes.
“The National Hockey League is saddened by the loss of Claude Lemieux, a four-time Stanley Cup champion and one of hockey’s greatest clutch players,” stated NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.
Born in Buckingham, Quebec, Lemieux was selected by the Canadiens in 1983 and led the team with 10 goals in 20 playoff games during the 1986 postseason, helping Montreal secure the Stanley Cup.
He later joined the New Jersey Devils, playing a crucial role in their 1995 Stanley Cup victory by scoring 13 goals in 20 playoff games, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ MVP.
Lemieux also won the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996 and again with the Devils in 2000.
“Today marks a somber day for the Canadiens family and the entire hockey community,” stated Canadiens president Geoff Molson.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Claude’s family and loved ones. A fierce competitor who thrived in critical moments, Claude was a relentless and courageous player who led the team to its greatest achievements.”
The Devils expressed their profound sadness regarding Lemieux’s passing in a statement.
“A clutch performer on the ice and cherished by Devils fans off it, Claude’s contribution in bringing the first Stanley Cup to New Jersey will always be remembered as one of the most significant achievements in team history,” the Devils remarked.
Lemieux recorded 379 goals and 407 assists across 1,215 career NHL regular-season games, in addition to amassing 80 goals and 78 assists during 234 playoff games.
Internationally, he represented Canada multiple times, winning a gold medal at the 1985 World Junior Hockey Championships and the 1987 Canada Cup.
Off the ice, Lemieux worked as an agent, representing several NHL players, including Devils forward Timo Meier.
“Widely respected throughout the NHL, both as a reliable agent and a valued colleague, Claude leaves a lasting mark on the game to which he dedicated so much,” the Devils stated.
(Edited by : Vivek Dubey)
