The hockey world continues to mourn the loss of former NHL star Claude Lemieux as friends and those closest to him open up about the emotional struggles that may have shadowed the final years of his life.

Lemieux, who died at the age of 60, built a legendary reputation during a career spanning more than two decades in the NHL. Widely regarded as one of hockey’s greatest playoff performers, he helped the Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils and Colorado Avalanche capture four Stanley Cup titles.

Known for elevating his game when it mattered most, Lemieux became one of the most recognizable and controversial figures of his generation, earning a place among the NHL’s all-time postseason scoring leaders.

But according to longtime Montreal hockey columnist Réjean Tremblay, personal disappointments continued to weigh heavily on the former winger long after his playing career ended.

One of the deepest wounds, friends say, was Lemieux’s exclusion from the Hockey Hall of Fame. Tremblay, who knew the NHL icon for decades, claimed Lemieux viewed the omission as a painful injustice and struggled to move beyond it after retiring in 2009.

“He always lived this as an injustice, a heavy burden to bear,” Tremblay said.

Those close to Lemieux reportedly believed he was deeply affected by rejection throughout his life and career. Tremblay recalled that even early setbacks left lasting scars, including a moment in the mid-1980s when Lemieux was briefly sent down to the minor leagues after his rookie NHL season.

According to Tremblay, the demotion devastated him emotionally and highlighted how personally he took disappointment.

In the days before his death, Lemieux returned to Montreal where he was warmly celebrated by Canadiens fans. The organization invited him to participate in the team’s ceremonial torch-carrying tradition ahead of a playoff game at the Bell Centre, drawing a standing ovation from thousands in attendance.

While Lemieux appeared happy during the event, some friends later suggested the emotional reception may have reopened unresolved feelings from his past.

After years of reportedly feeling overlooked in some aspects of his career, the public outpouring of love may have resurfaced painful memories and emotions tied to rejection and legacy.

Friends also claimed family difficulties had weighed heavily on him during retirement. Sources familiar with the situation said Lemieux experienced years of strained relationships with some of his children, something that allegedly caused him deep sadness.

People close to the family said he had been battling depression in recent months, though relatives reportedly never expected he would take his own life. His death has left loved ones stunned.

During his final trip to Montreal, Lemieux reportedly spent meaningful time with family members, including his parents and two of his oldest sons — moments that have now taken on heartbreaking significance in the wake of his passing.