Goaltenders share a special bond. Although they’re essentially always battling for their team’s one starting position, they create a special bond as being one of only few on the team. Not to mention they do everything together in practice, so it shouldn’t come as a surprisie to see Blue Jackets goaltender was hit extremely hard by the passing of his goalie-mate and close friend, Matiss Kivlenieks.
The Latvian goaltender tragically lost his life over the weekend following an incident involving fireworks on the fourth of July and the hockey world was completely rocked upon hearing the news. ‘Kivi’s’ current and former teammates were quick to respond through social media posts, and it’s safe to say Merzlikins’ stood out as one of the more powerful messages, as he really let it all out through a caption on Instagram. Merzlikins was just over two years older than Kilenieks and is also a native of Latvia.
A truly tough read. Here’s what other players from the Blue Jackets organization had to say:
Undrafted, Kivi suited up in eight games for the Jackets, finishing his career with a 2-2-2 record. Our condolences are with his family and friends.
(H/T Elvis Merzlikins)
