In an emotional moment for both the player and the team, Pittsburgh Penguins legend Mario Lemieux shared a heartfelt message to commemorate Kris Letang’s 1000th NHL game. The words of admiration and appreciation from one of the greatest hockey players of all time highlighted Letang’s incredible journey and accomplishments in the league.
Kris Letang has earned his place in Penguins history as one of the franchise’s most skilled and tenacious defensemen. His impressive career stats and contributions to the team’s success have earned him a special place in the hearts of Penguins fans. Letang’s dedication and determination have been key factors in the team’s three Stanley Cup victories during his tenure.
“IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE YOU ARE CELEBRATING YOUR 1,000TH GAME IN THE NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE. YOU HAVE SOLIDIFIED YOURSELF AS ONE OF THE GREATEST DEFENSEMEN IN PENGUINS HISTORY, AS WELL AS THE HISTORY OF THE NHL. YOUR STRENGTH, DETERMINATION, AND RESILIENCE ARE A TESTAMENT TO YOUR SUCCESS. IT HAS BEEN A PLEASURE WATCHING EACH AND EVERY GAME – ESPECIALLY THE THREE CUP RUNS. I WISH YOU MANY MORE GAMES, MY FRIEND. MERCI POUR LES SOUVENIRS!”
The Penguins organization celebrated Letang’s milestone by donning Letang jerseys during warm-ups, and by inviting his son to join him on the ice. It was a fitting tribute to a player who has given so much to the team and the city of Pittsburgh.
The message from Mario Lemieux serves as a testament to the respect and admiration that Letang has garnered throughout his career. As a former player and current co-owner of the Penguins, Lemieux’s acknowledgement of Letang’s achievements carries significant weight and reinforces his status as one of the best defensemen in the league.
Letang’s 1000th game milestone is a significant achievement, and the recognition from Mario Lemieux and the Penguins organization is well-deserved. As the team pushes for a playoff spot, Letang’s presence on the blue line will continue to be a crucial factor in the Penguins’ line-up every night.
Letang was drafted in the third round of the 2005 NHL draft. Kris Letang has now played 1,000 games with the Penguins, scoring 154 goals and assisting 532 for a total of 686 points, and went on to win 3 Stanley Cups as a very important member of all of the teams, having 90 points in 149 playoff games.
