LUBBOCK, Texas – Gordie Howe’s family says the hockey Hall of Famer’s condition remains “guarded” but his spirits are good after a significant stroke Sunday.

The family released a statement through the Detroit Red Wings on Wednesday.

The stroke occurred over the weekend at his daughter’s home in Lubbock, Texas.

The family says the 86-year-old Howe is showing some signs of improvement, but there is a long road to recovery ahead.

Howe’s family reports that his competitive spirit remains strong.

The man known as “Mr. Hockey” set NHL marks with 801 goals and 1,850 points – mostly with the Red Wings – that held up until Wayne Gretzky surpassed him in the record book.