Steve Montador, who played 10 seasons in the NHL, has died at the age of 35, to the shock and sadness of his former associates in the league.
Montador was found unresponsive in his Ontario home early Sunday morning and was pronounced dead when authorities arrived.
Authorities said foul play was not suspected.
"The NHL family was saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Montador," NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said. "Steve's career was defined by a passion for the game and a determination that made him a great teammate as well as a respected opponent. We extend our deepest sympathies to Steve's family and friends."
Montador, a Vancouver native, went undrafted in 2000 and signed as a free agent with the Calgary Flames, where he spent three-plus seasons and appeared in the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals.
He spent time with five more franchises, the last of which was the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2011-12 season.
"With deep sadness we mourn the unfortunate loss of former Blackhawk Steve Montador," the Blackhawks said in a statement.
"We join the many others throughout the NHL in keeping Steve's family and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Over 571 career NHL games, Montador totaled 33 goals and 98 assists and averaged 80.7 penalty minutes a season.
He posted a career-high 26 points with Buffalo in 2010-11.
"The Buffalo Sabres were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Steve Montador," the team said in a statement. "Steve was a passionate hockey player, a valued member of the Sabres family and a highly respected individual off the ice."
Source: AFP