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Former NHL Player Dead At 45 After Skiing Accident

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Mar 18, 2025 10:50 PM ET

The hockey community received devastating news this week involving former NHL player Tomas Kloucek. He passed away at the young age of 45.

Kloucek, who spent five years in the NHL, died in a skiing accident in Czechia. The details of this tragic accident have not yet been released. His wife, Barbara Klouckova, confirmed his death with a heartbreaking message on Instagram.

"Yesterday, after a grievous accident, my husband, my universe, my love, dad of our children and your friend Tomas Kloucek abandoned us forever. In less than five minutes, my life turned upside down and everything was different," she wrote. "All of you who were around him deserve to know. Please respect our privacy and grief we are grappling with right now."

A few days prior to Kloucek's death, Klouckova posted a few skiing photos on Instagram. Countless people have offered their condolences to her family.

"My condolences to you and your whole family hold on," one person said.

"My deepest condolences to the whole family," another person wrote.

Kloucek started his pro hockey career with the New York Rangers as a fifth-round pick in the 1998 NHL Draft. He went on to play for the Nashville Predators and Atlanta Thrashers before leaving the NHL behind.

After leaving the NHL, Kloucek went back to Czechia in 2007 to suit up for Slavia Praha, HC Zlin, Bili Tygri Liberec and Ocelari Trinec.

Our thoughts are with Kloucek's loved ones.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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