Mario Lemieux turns 51 today, giving the hockey world good reason to look back at some of his most memorable moments.
Here are five of the best.
1. 5 goals, 5 ways
In a game against New Jersey in 1988, Lemieux scored five goals in five different situations: at even strength, short-handed, on the power play, on a penalty shot, and into an empty net.
2. Super moves
Lemieux's skills were on full display with this goal against Minnesota during the 1991 Stanley Cup Final.
3. Lemieux scores in return from cancer treatment
On the same day as his final radiation treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma, Lemieux flew to Philadelphia and scored a goal in his first game in almost two months, even earning a standing ovation from Flyers fans.
4. Final goal before early retirement
Despite still being at the top of his game and leading the league with 122 points, Lemieux announced he would retire following the 1997 playoffs. His final home goal was met with much emotion.
5. The great return
Following a three-year absence during which he purchased the Penguins, Lemieux announced he would return to the ice, becoming the first modern-day player/owner in the NHL.
Of course, he put on a show in his first game back.
(Videos courtesy: NHL.com)
