Forty years later, Mario Lemieux’s impact on the Penguins is still felt daily

Eddie Johnston, the general manager who selected Mario Lemieux in the NHL draft 40 years ago this month, was not concerned about Lemieux putting on a Penguins jersey when he made the historic announcement at the Montreal Forum.

Lemieux did not wear the jersey initially.

Ironically, Lemieux’s first action with the Penguins was to distance himself from the franchise, a trend that would continue for the next four decades on and off the ice.

Johnston stated that it was Lemieux’s agents, not Lemieux himself, who didn’t want to put on the jersey. Johnston had done thorough research and believed that Lemieux was not just a generational player, but a once-in-a-lifetime player and person.

Johnston emphasized that the Penguins owe their existence to Mario Lemieux.

Pittsburgh was in dire straits before Lemieux’s arrival, with the Penguins emerging from bankruptcy nine years prior. The team had struggled on the ice and in attendance while playing in subpar facilities. Lemieux’s arrival changed everything.

• The Penguins were known for heartbreaking playoff losses and a lack of success.
• Lemieux’s impact was felt immediately, elevating the Penguins to new levels of success and popularity.

Paul Coffey, a former teammate, acknowledged Lemieux’s transformative effect on the team and the entire city of Pittsburgh.

Scotty Bowman, the highly accomplished coach, recognized Lemieux’s uniqueness and contribution to the team’s success.

Lemieux’s influence extended beyond the ice, as he saved the team from bankruptcy and kept them in Pittsburgh through ownership challenges.

Lemieux’s presence is still felt in Pittsburgh, where he is revered as a legendary figure who defined the Penguins franchise.

Lemieux’s ownership group sold the team, but he retained a minority share, a testament to his enduring connection to the franchise.

While not involved in day-to-day operations, Lemieux remains a significant figure in Penguins history and is celebrated by fans at every opportunity.

Johnston’s initial concerns about Lemieux’s impact on the team have been eclipsed by the reality of his monumental contribution to the Penguins and the city of Pittsburgh.

Farber likened Lemieux to sports icons like Babe Ruth and Bill Russell, highlighting the lasting impact Lemieux has had on the Penguins.

Lemieux’s legacy as a Penguin is secure, with his influence stretching far beyond the ice and into the hearts of Pittsburgh fans.

Mario Lemieux waves to the crowd at Jaromir Jagr’s jersey retirement ceremony in February. (Justin Berl / Getty Images)

Four decades after the NHL draft, Johnston’s confidence in Lemieux’s greatness has been validated, with Lemieux becoming a central figure in Penguins history and beyond.

Lemieux’s impact on the team and the city of Pittsburgh is immeasurable, solidifying his place as one of the greatest sports figures in the city’s history.

Johnston’s initial concerns have been replaced by overwhelming gratitude for Lemieux’s unparalleled contribution to the Penguins franchise.

Lemieux’s legacy as a Penguin is etched in history, a testament to his enduring influence and profound connection to the city and its fans.

Lemieux’s impact reaches far beyond the rink, shaping the identity of the Penguins and leaving an indelible mark on the team and its fans.

The picture of Lemieux wearing the Penguins jersey atop Mount Washington serves as a powerful symbol of his connection to the city and the team.

(Top photo: Allsport / Getty Images)