Remembering Matiss Kivlenieks

 

The CDNHL Canadiens are heartbroken after learning the news of the passing of 24-year-old Latvian goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks, a young man with much to live for and with a promising future in hockey. What should have been a night filled with celebration and happiness took an abrupt and tragic turn when young Kivlenieks was struck in the chest by a wayward firework. Matiss was attending a function with countryman and fellow NHL Blue Jackets Elvis Merzlikins in Novi, Michigan, celebrating the nation’s independence day, when the incident took place. Paramedics arrived on the scene but were unable to save him.

 

Matiss was signed as a free agent to the CDNHL Canadiens due to his hard work and dedication at every level of the sport, on which he constantly proved himself better than his peers, finally earning a contract with the NHL Blue Jackets. He joined fellow Latvian Merzlikins in Columbus where they shared a truly special bond. Kivlenieks showed great promise as a goaltender and was on the cusp of becoming an NHL regular, and even shut out Team Canada at this summer’s IIHF a world Championship, posting 38 saves against the nation’s finest players.

 

Matiss Kivlenieks’ number #80 will be retired at the end of this season.

 

We will miss you, Kivi.