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Wednesday, December 27
 
Lemieux gets rave reviews in sequel

ESPN.com

The majority of ESPN.com users were downright giddy with Mario Lemieux's comeback performance on Dec. 27. Lemieux finished with a goal and two assists as the Penguins pounded Toronto 5-0. Most users think Lemieux looked as good as ever, and some think he will only keep improving. Here is an edited sample of selected user responses.


Same old, same old!! His hands are magical. Not just on the goals and assists, but the exit passes from the Penguins' defensive zone are making the Penguins look like a better transition team. A+++++ for Lemieux

David Jennings
Henderson, N.C.


Mario looks incredible, but what he does to the team around him is just as important. The Penguins look like winners, and they look confident, controlling the play. The NHL should be afraid, the league has its superstar, and he will change the balance of power.

Daniel MacRae
Calgary, Alberta


Mario has yet to achieve full potential of his legs and is still lighting up the ice like only he can. He is using the most important part of his body … his brain. Mario is playing great fundamental hockey and positioning himself where the puck will be. The Lemieux/Jagr line will tear up the league. Look out competition … Mario is back!

Jeremy Stuck
Tallahassee, Fla.


Mario will be the most dominant player in the game. He looks fantastic tonight, Everytime he touches the puck he has made something happen. The way he looks tonight is as if he never left the game. His return is the greatest thing that could have happened.

Billy Surran
Tewksbury, Mass.


I haven't been this excited about watching hockey in years. I love Mario. He's absolutely awe-inspiring. "It's a great day for hockey…"

Jennifer
San Diego, Calif.


Lemieux being back makes this feel like playoff hockey. There is constant anticipation that something exciting might happen. Also, his passing is magnificent. I cannot remember the last time hockey was this beautiful.

Joe Greer
Ann Arbor, Mich.


There's only one thing I can say about this … SUPER MARIO IS BACK!!!

Jim
Akron, Ohio


If anything, Mario has studied the game more, and he has gotten even more craftier. His shot selection was well-balanced, and his playmaking abilities are untouched.

Anthony Gow
Oklahoma City, Okla.


Unreal! His skating looks a little off, but his size, wisdom, strength, eyes, and stickwork are all still there. This is one of the best things to ever happen!

Jason Dhaemers
Duluth, Minn.


Is there something magical about Lemieux or what? Watch out Theo Fleury … you are only 48 points ahead!!!

Bill Schambura
Pittsburgh, Pa.


You have to ask, 'Is this guy really human?'

John Kutch
Seattle, Wash.


At first I thought Mario Lemieux's comback attempt was just a publicity stunt. After watching his first game back, however, I quickly changed my mind. He has come back for the love of the game, his skill seems not to have suffered at all during his time away. This was great for him and great for hockey.

George Hall
Springfield, Pa.


Mario Lemieux is the most amazing athlete in the history of sports. Not only does he come back from Leukemia and wins a scoring title. He comes back after a three year layoff and looks like he never left. Tonight's performance is one for the ages. Thanks Mario!

David Hedlund
Grand Ledge, Mich.


Honestly did you expect any less? Incredible, simply Incredible.

Steve De Antonio
Radford, VA


Lemieux didn't look like his same old self tonight – he looked better!! He was skating more fluently. His skills are still there, as is his vision. The Pens and Mario have instantly transformed themselves into Cup contenders.

Thomas
London, Ontario





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