Former NHL player Adam Johnson dies after being cut by skate during game in England

Former NHL player Adam Johnson tragically passed away in a “freak accident” while playing a game in Britain’s ice hockey league, as announced by the Nottingham Panthers.

The BBC reported on the incident. Johnson, 29, suffered a neck injury from a skate during a game against the Sheffield Steelers in the 35th minute. Players quickly surrounded him on the ice, and he was given immediate medical attention. After being treated at the scene, he was transported to the hospital. The game was halted, and fans were asked to leave.

“Everyone at the club, including players, staff, management, and ownership, is devastated by the news of Adam’s passing,” expressed the team in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the fans and staff of both clubs, particularly those who attended the game or were following it. This tragedy has deeply affected everyone involved. The Panthers would like to express gratitude to those who provided support to Adam in this challenging situation.”

Johnson, who previously played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, was in his debut season with Nottingham, accomplishing four goals in seven games.

“Adam, our number 47, was not only an exceptional ice hockey player but also an amazing teammate and an extraordinary individual with a promising future ahead of him,” declared the team. “The Club will deeply miss him and will forever hold him in our hearts.”

Johnson had played for two seasons with the University of Minnesota-Duluth and appeared in 13 NHL games with the Penguins between 2018 and 2020, registering a goal and three assists.

Prior to his time in England, he had also played in the American Hockey League, Sweden, and Germany.

The Elite Ice Hockey League promptly postponed all of Sunday’s games in response to the tragedy.

This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Adam Johnson, former Penguins player, dies from skate cut in England