Mario's merit - The Fans Speak Out

I would like to thank you for putting Mario Lemieux on the cover of your January issue. He is such an amazing player, and it is a real shame that some people are so shallow that just because their favorite team doesn't have a player of Mario's caliber, they have to go and complain about him. Why can't people grow up and admit when a player has skill. And another thing: I have been to Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh many times, and the Penguins could definitely use a new arena. The building is practically falling apart, and in this day and age where everyone on top of everyone gets a new arena, the Penguins rightly deserve a new home. And to you Lemieux haters out there ["Fans," January], grow up.

Robbie Demarest
Via e-mail

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks Mario Lemieux is overrated. Saved the Penguins twice? The first time, well that is what franchise players are paid to do. The second time, he just wanted his money the franchise owed him. It wasn't coming fast enough, so he staged his comeback. Then what does he do? Raises his own salary and trades Jaromir Jagr, because he's too expensive. What does he do next? He wants glory in the Olympics, so he wrecks his team in the process. Enjoy your gold, "Super Ego." Courageous? I can think of a few players who have come back from hardship better and quieter: Saku Koivu, Bryan Berard, and Steve Yzerman come to mind. He scores goals? So do many other great players in the NHL--and they do it with more class and with less publicity. I am tired of you pundits lauding that selfish, greedy "Super Ego."

Meg Truscott
Warren, Mich.

I have been a subscriber for quite some time, and I would like to thank you for your in-depth articles and interesting reading.

Each year, my mom and I take a trip out to Pittsburgh from eastern Pennsylvania to see the Penguins. Last weekend we took that trip. It was only our second time seeing Mario Lemieux in the seven years we have been going. He was absolutely amazing, scoring a goal a recording two assists against the San Jose Sharks in a 4-1 win. It was exactly what we paid for. All of the Penguins goals were scored on our end of the ice. Again, thank you for your terrific coverage of the most exciting sport in the world.