'Miracle on Ice' forward Mark Pavelich dies at age 63

Pavelich reportedly died at the Eagle's Healing Nest in Sauk Center, Minnesota. The cause of his death has not yet been revealed to the public. 

He was receiving treatment at the center, which stemmed from an assault case involving his neighbor in August 2019. Pavelich was eventually charged with felony assault, but a judge deemed the former NHLer was already suffering from mental illness. He was diagnosed with a mild neurocognitive disorder due to traumatic head injuries.

Pavelich made a name for himself at the 1980 Olympics, assisting on Mike Eruzione's game-winning goal against the Soviet Union in the semi-final game. The US would later beat Finland to win Olympic gold.   

He also spent seven seasons in the NHL with the New York Rangers, Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks, notching 329 points (137 goals, 192 assists) in 355 games.