NHL legend Gordie Howe showing signs of improvement after stroke

NHL legend Gordie Howe is in guarded condition, but is showing signs of improvement after suffering what was termed as a “significant stroke.” The man known as “Mr. Hockey,” is resting in Texas.

Here is the Howe family's statement in full via RedWings.com:

“The Howe family would like to thank friends, family and fans for your overwhelming well-wishes, prayers and support for Gordie. He suffered a significant stroke on Sunday morning while at his daughter's home in Lubbock, Texas. His condition remains guarded although he is showing some signs of improvement. We acknowledge that there is a long road to recovery ahead, but Dad's spirits are good and his competitive attitude remains strong.”

There has been an outpouring of support for the man considered one of the greatest hockey players ever. The family is also encouraging fans that wish to send cards of letters of support for Howe to do so.

The 86-year-old is the Detroit Red Wings' all-time leader in goals, points and games played. He won the Stanley Cup four times and was named the league's MVP six times.

Howe's last NHL season came after six years in the World Hockey Association with the Houston Aeros and New England Whalers. At age 51, Mr. Hockey had 41 points in 80 games in the re-named Hartford Whalers' inaugural NHL season before he finally retired for good.

Howe left the game with 801 goals, second most in NHL history, and 1,850 points, which ranks third all time. He is the league's all-time leader in games played at 1,767, which may never be touched. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972 before he resumed his career in the WHA.

In addition to his immense production and longevity, Howe is revered throughout the sporting world for the toughness he displayed throughout his career. Perhaps it's no surprise he's already battling back from this stroke.