Winnipeg Jets newly acquired forward Rick Rypien dead at 27 –National Hockey League (NHL) News Update
Winnipeg Jets newly acquired forward, Rick Rypien, was found dead at his home in Coleman, Alberta, Canada, where he was spending the 2011 National Hockey League (NHL) offseason after having signed onto the new Winnipeg franchise to a one-year, $700,000 contract
for the next season.
The cause of death still remains unknown as investigators of the local police are still looking into the matter, but at the moment, nothing can be said conclusively. Rypien’s family also resides in the same town where he was living at the time and could
be taken into questioning by the concerned authorities.
Before signing on with Winnipeg Jets as a unrestricted free agent, Rypien was a part of Vancouver Canucks franchise along with their minor league affiliate in the American Hockey League (AHL), Manitoba Moose, for the past six straight seasons. His long-time
team was devastated at the loss and was one of the first to release a statement.
“It is with tremendous sadness that the Vancouver Canucks confirm the passing of Rick Rypien", said the team in a written statement. "Rick has been a beloved member of the Canucks family for the past six years. Rick was a great teammate and friend to our
players, coaches and staff. We send our deepest condolences to the Rypien family at this most difficult time”.
According to fellow Jets teammate and former Manitoba Moose associate, Jason Jaffray, Rypien was facing some personal issues which he would not disclose to either his friends or teammates.
“I thought he had it all worked out”, said Jets forward Jason Jaffray, who was Rypien’s roommate on the road during their early days with the Moose. “I didn’t see it coming. I’m speechless right now. It’s tough to take”.
In total, Rick Rypien leaves behind him a career in which he played 119 NHL games and contributed 16 points (9 goals, 7 assists). It might not have been the best in the sport, but it certainly was not one of the most unnoticed.
Updates on the causes of death are expected in the upcoming days as investigators tend to combine the evidence and facts.
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