The family of former NHL star Claude Lemieux announced Saturday they will donate his brain for chronic traumatic encephalopathy research following the hockey legend’s death at age 60 this past Thursday.
According to reports from multiple news outlets, Lemieux died by suicide based on information from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He was discovered at a furniture business he operated with his wife in Lake Park, Florida.
“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 announced through a statement issued by his 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 spent 21 years competing in the NHL and earned the 1994-95 Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff most valuable player. His championship victories included two titles with the New Jersey Devils (1994-95, 1999-2000) along with wins for the Colorado Avalanche (1995-96) and Montreal Canadiens (1985-86).
During his playoff career, Lemieux accumulated 158 points through 80 goals and 78 assists while serving 529 penalty minutes across 234 postseason contests. His performance helped lead the Canadiens to their 23rd Stanley Cup championship in 1985-86, where he scored a team-best 10 goals including four game-winners.
“Claude dedicated his post-play career to helping the next generation,” his family stated, noting his work as a player representative. “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.”
Recognized as an intense competitor who played with physical intensity, he balanced his role between delivering crucial scoring and creating on-ice confrontations.
Throughout his regular season career, Lemieux totaled 786 points with 379 goals and 407 assists while accumulating 1,777 penalty minutes over 1,215 games 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 expressed in their 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-born player was drafted by Montreal in the second round of the 1983 NHL Draft.
Earlier this week on Monday, Lemieux participated in pre-game ceremonies at the Bell Centre, carrying the torch before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals between Montreal and the visiting Carolina Hurricanes.
“The family recognizes that there has been public reporting about the circumstances of Claude’s death,” the family noted in their 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.”
