Ice Hockey – NHL

Aurélie SACCHELLI, Media365, published on Monday 05 July 2021 at 20:25

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced on Monday the death of their 24-year-old Latvian international goalkeeper Matiss Kivlenieks following an accidental fall.

The NHL world is in mourning. Latvian Columbus goalkeeper Matiss Kivlenieks has died at the age of 24, the Ohio franchise reported on Monday. The young Latvian player has died in Michigan, as part of the US National Day (July 4) after a fall that resulted in a serious head injury. “We are shocked and saddened by the loss of Matiss Kivlenieks, and we offer our deepest condolences to her mother, Astrida, her family and friends at this most tragic time. ‘Kivi’ was an exceptional young man who welcomed every day and every person with a smile, and the impact he had with the organization during these four years will not be forgotten, ”the president wrote in a statement. hockey operations of the Blue Jackets, where the Frenchman Alexandre Texier, John Davidson plays.

Eight NHL games during his career

« The National Hockey League is saddened to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks, » said NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. On behalf of the NHL family, we offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates, both with the Blues Jackets and with his Latvian squad. His love for life and his passion for our sport will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to have him as a teammate and as a friend.  » The 24-year-old goalie has played eight NHL games during his career, all in the Blue Jackets jersey: six last season (123 saves, 14 goals conceded) and two this season (71 saves, 7 goals conceded). He also competed in the 2021 World Championship with Latvia, at home, where he played four games and contributed to the 2-0 victory over Canada.