NEW YORK – Gary Bettman, Commissioner of the National Hockey League, today released the following statement regarding the death of Wade Belak.
“The National Hockey League family mourns the passing of Wade Belak, who competed to the utmost every minute of his NHL career. Our hearts go out to Wade’s loved ones, his friends, his former teammates and to all who feel the horrible void left by this tragedy.”
In four months, the NHL has seen the passing of three players including Belak.
The New York Rangers’ Derek Boogaard passed in May and the Winnipeg Jets’ Rick Rypien was found dead earlier in August.
Craig Button, former GM for the Calgary Flames, was quoted on ESPN.com saying that the role of concussions must be reviewed when considering the similarities between the three players who have passed this off season.
Belak was slated to begin working for the Nashville Predators television network this season.
“Wade was a beloved member of the organization, a terrific teammate and wonderful father and husband who will be greatly missed,” the Predators said in the statement. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Jennifer, and children, Andie and Alex. We offer our full support to them at this very difficult time.”
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