Mourning blanketed the world of ice hockey over the weekend after a freak accident that led to the death of former Pittsburgh Penguins Adam Johnson during a hockey game.
Johnson played 13 games for the NHL's Penguins during the 2018-19 season before transferring to Nottingham Panthers in England's Elite Ice Hockey League.
Local reports have confirmed that Johnson, 29, died after getting his throat cut by a skate blade during a game against the Sheffield Steelers. The incident occurred in the second period when the Panthers were trailing 1-2.
The game was stopped at the 13:47 mark of the second period, and other games were suspended. The Panthers organization immediately sent out their condolences to the family and friends of the American player.
The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night. pic.twitter.com/lhSOkDu03Q
— The Nottingham Panthers (@PanthersIHC) October 29, 2023
Read more: Olivia Dunne Unleashes 4-Word Clapback to NY Times Article
"The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night," his team said in a statement.
"The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time." "Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him."
Call for better player protection raised
Immediately after the news of Johnson's freak accident broke out, calls for better player protection have been raised. Boston Bruins affiliate Providence made their players wear neckguards on Sunday.
With the incident that happened with Adam Johnson in England, It’s time for the NHL to act. Mandate slash proof neck and wrist guards. https://t.co/W6ckgjSqt7
— Jay Money (@insiderJmoney) October 29, 2023
Tributes also poured in for Johnson.
The only video of Adam Johnson that should be circulating the internet. His first NHL goal.
— Kraken Canada (@KrakenCanada) October 29, 2023
RIP. pic.twitter.com/57UKBadGaS
A moment of silence was held for Adam Johnson prior to the Heritage Classic pic.twitter.com/JcpHtdOrlt
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 29, 2023
Please do not ask for the video of what recently just passed. Instead, let’s share this video for one of the best memories he has had in his playing career. Prayers up for Adam Johnson🙏 https://t.co/GqTwTWctjQ
— Alec (@DatYinzerAlec) October 29, 2023
Such a tragic loss of such a wonderful player. The whole league stands behind the family and friends of Adam Johnson who was sadly taken too soon. pic.twitter.com/0hxLio7cdH
— Amelia Xx (@_ameliach29_) October 29, 2023
Related article: NHL Hands Massive, Record-Breaking Suspension on Senators' Shane Pinto for Gambling-Related Case
© 2023 Sportsworldnews.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
