Claude Percy Lemieux, the fierce Canadian right winger who won four Stanley Cups with three different teams and captured the 1995 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 60. His death by suicide in South Florida has left the hockey world in shock, coming just days after he served as a torchbearer for the Montreal Canadiens.Born on July 16, 1965, in Buckingham, Quebec, Lemieux built one of the most remarkable postseason careers in NHL history. Over 21 seasons, he played 1,215 regular-season games, recording 379 goals and 786 points, but it was in the playoffs where he truly shined — tallying 80 goals and 158 points in 234 games, ranking among the all-time leaders.A polarizing yet unforgettable competitor known for his physical, agitating style, Lemieux helped the Montreal Canadiens (1986), New Jersey Devils (1995, 2000), and Colorado Avalanche (1996) capture the Stanley Cup. His clutch performances, especially his dominant 1995 playoff run, cemented his legacy as one of hockey’s greatest playoff warriors.Beyond the ice, Lemieux built significant wealth through his NHL career earnings of approximately $22.36 million, his player agency 4sports Hockey, and the family furniture business in Florida. He is survived by his wife Deborah and four children, including former NHL player Brendan Lemieux.
