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Jackets’ Matiss Kivlenieks Dies in Fireworks Accident

Tragedy strikes again on this nation’s Independence Day. It was announced that Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks suffered a tragic death during Fourth of July celebrations. He was reportedly struck in the chest with a firework mortar. Ahead of Monday’s Game 4 between the Lightning and the Canadiens, the two teams took a moment of silence to honor Kivlenieks. Following the game, Lightning coach Jon Cooper began his presser with a message of condolence to the Kivlenieks family.

In the wake of a tough loss, it was a nice gesture for Cooper to prioritize what’s really important.

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Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen shared his condolences on Twitter.

Kivlenieks signed with Columbus as a free agent in 2017. He made his NHL debut at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 19, 2020, stopping 31 of 32 shots to beat the New York Rangers 2-1.

RIP.


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