Avast, me hearties! The NHL All-Star Roman Cechmanek be breathin' his last at the ripe age of 52.
2023-11-13
Avast, me hearties! Roman Cechmanek, the swashbucklin' goalie who guarded the nets fer the Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings, hath shuffled off this mortal coil at the age o' 52. Aye, he were a fearsome NHL All-Star, if ye can believe it!
Former NHL goaltender Roman Cechmanek, known for his success with the Philadelphia Flyers, has passed away at the age of 52, according to an announcement by the team. Cechmanek had a successful career in his home country, the Czech Republic, before joining the Flyers in 2000. He also played for the Los Angeles Kings during his time in the NHL. The Flyers expressed their sadness over Cechmanek's passing, highlighting his impact on and off the ice during his three seasons with the team. He was beloved by fans and teammates for his distinct style and skill in stopping the puck. Cechmanek's outstanding performance led the Flyers to three consecutive playoff appearances, two 100-point seasons, and an Atlantic Division title. Alongside Robert Esche, he also won the NHL's William M. Jennings Trophy for the fewest goals scored against in the regular season in 2002-03. No cause of death has been announced. In his first NHL season, Cechmanek made an immediate impact, earning an All-Star selection and finishing second in voting for the Vezina Trophy. He had an impressive record of 35-15, with 1,349 saves and 10 shutouts. He continued to perform well in the playoffs, helping the Flyers reach the conference semifinals in 2003. Cechmanek was later traded to the Los Angeles Kings and then to the Chicago Blackhawks. After his time in the NHL, he played in Germany and Sweden before becoming a coach in the Czech Republic. He is survived by his two sons and one daughter. Details about the cause of his death are yet to be released. Reuters contributed to this report.