The End Of The Line For Mario?

A little premature, perhaps, to post such alarming headlines. But considering Mario Lemieux's age and history, the phrase "sidelined indefinitely" has to have everyone wondering if he will play again.

Lemieux has been missing from the Pittsburgh lineup since November 1 because of a hip flexor injury. The Penguins had been assuring everyone that the problem was minor and his return was imminent. But as the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports, the official status of Lemieux's injury took a turn for the worse yesterday. There is no longer a timetable for his return.

All signs in recent months indicate that Lemieux is determined hold off retirement. He came back to a Penguins' team that will not make the playoffs. He reportedly worked hard on his conditioning last summer. He has said that, if healthy, he will play in next fall's World Cup tournament. In reference to his original retirement in 1997 he has said, "I don't want to make that mistake again."

But the flesh is obviously weak. If Lemieux can complete his rehab and get back on the ice, don't be surprised to see him signing sticks and taking a curtain call when the Penguins complete their final game this season.