The hockey community mourns the loss of Adam Johnson, an American hockey player who tragically passed away after sustaining a neck injury caused by a skate blade during a game in England.
This incident, which occurred during a matchup between the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers, has left the entire hockey world devastated.
Adam Johnson, a former Pittsburgh Penguin and college hockey player, died after being cut in the neck by a skate blade during a game in England. pic.twitter.com/wZ01KBiqwZ
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 29, 2023
Adam Johnson, only 29 years old, had already made a mark in the world of hockey. The Minnesota native played in 13 NHL games for the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2019 and 2020 seasons.
Additionally, he spent the 2020-21 season in Sweden, playing for the Malmo Redhawks. Johnson’s career showed great potential, with a goal and three assists for the Penguins.
“The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the life of Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon,” the Penguins said Sunday in a statement. “We offer our deepest condolences to Adam’s family and friends, as well as all of Adam’s past and present teammates and coaches. Adam will always be part of the Penguins family.”
Before Johnson’s professional career took off, he played college hockey for the University of Minnesota-Duluth. His skills and contribution helped the Bulldogs reach the NCAA Tournament twice.
Notably, he scored a game-winning goal in overtime during the 2017 tournament, propelling Minnesota-Duluth to the Frozen Four by defeating Boston University.
Although Johnson’s time in the NHL was brief, he left an indelible mark on the Pittsburgh Penguins organization.
The team expressed their deep condolences and acknowledged that Johnson will always be part of their extended family.
“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,” the team said Sunday.
“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. Everyone at the club including players, staff, management and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing.”
Johnson’s teammates, coaches, and fans fondly remember him as a skilled player and a great teammate.
“Great kid (and) teammate,” Laperriere said in a text message. “Only great things to say about him.”
