Claude Lemieux’s family said Saturday that the four-time Stanley Cup champion’s brain will be donated to CTE research following his death at age 60 on Thursday.
Lemieux committed suicide, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, multiple media outlets reported on Thursday. He was found at a furniture store that Lemieux and his wife owned in Lake Park, Fla., per the reports.
“In the hope that Claude’s life can continue to help others, the family has chosen to donate his brain to the UNITE Brain Bank at the Boston University CTE Center for research into the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts and traumatic brain injury,” the family said in a statement released by daughter Claudia Lemieux Bishop. “The family has also given permission for the CTE Center to identify Claude by name in connection with his donation and any findings it may publicly share in accordance with its research protocols.
“The family emphasizes that this decision is a gift to science, to athletes, and to future generations of families seeking answers. No conclusions should be drawn at this time regarding any diagnosis.”
Lemieux played 21 seasons in the NHL and was awarded the 1994-95 Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP. He won two Stanley Cup titles with the New Jersey Devils (1994-95, 1999-2000) and one each with the Colorado Avalanche (1995-96) and Montreal Canadiens (1985-86).
Lemieux recorded 158 points (80 goals, 78 assists) and 529 penalty minutes in 234 playoff games. He had a team-leading 10 goals and four game-winning goals in aiding the Canadiens to their 23rd Stanley Cup title in 1985-86.
“Claude dedicated his post-play career to helping the next generation,” the family said, referring to his role as an agent. “By allowing his name to be connected to this research, we hope his life can contribute to greater understanding, more honest conversations, and better protection for athletes and families in the years ahead.”
Known as a fierce competitor with a physical side, he skated a fine line between being a clutch scorer and an agitator.
Lemieux had 786 points (379 goals, 407 assists) and 1,777 penalty minutes in 1,215 regular-season contests with the Canadiens, Devils, Avalanche, then-Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars and San Jose Sharks.
“The Lemieux family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love from fans, former teammates, opponents, organizations and friends across the hockey community,” the family said in the statement. “The stories being shared of Claude’s competitiveness, humor, loyalty and unmistakable presence have brought comfort during an unimaginably difficult time. The family asks only for continued prayers.”
The Quebec native was selected by the Canadiens in the second round of the 1983 NHL Draft.
On Monday, Lemieux greeted the Montreal crowd by carrying the torch into the Bell Centre prior to the start of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals against the visiting Carolina Hurricanes.
“The family recognizes that there has been public reporting about the circumstances of Claude’s death,” the family said in the statement. “Suicide is complex, and the family asks media and the public to discuss this loss with care, compassion and respect for those who loved him. Anyone in crisis or emotional distress in the United States can call or text 988 for confidential support from the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.”
