Oilers’ Cave Dies After Brain Bleed

Edmonton Oilers forward Colby Cave died Saturday morning after suffering a brain bleed earlier that week. His wife, Emily Cave, confirmed the news in a statement on Saturday.
“It is with great sadness to share the news that our Colby Cave passed away this morning,” the statement said. “Both our families are in shock but know our Colby was loved dearly by us, his family and friends, the entire hockey community, and many more. We thank everyone for their prayers during this difficult time.”
Colby had a colloid cyst in his head that was causing pressure on his brain. Cave had emergency surgery earlier in the week to remove the cyst and was put into a medically induced coma due to the severity of the damage.
The worst part about it is, none of Cave’s family members were allowed to see him or visit him before he passed away due to precautions hospitals have to take thanks to the coronavirus.
Emily made it clear that her husband was in bad shape, as she posted to Instagram on Wednesday night, saying the family needed a “miracle.” The news shook not only the hockey world but the entire sports world. Cave was 25 years old.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said on Saturday, “The National Hockey League family mourns the heartbreaking passing of Colby Cave, whose life and hockey career, though too short, were inspiringly emblematic of the best of our game, undrafted but undaunted, Colby was relentless in the pursuit of his hockey dream with both the Edmonton Oilers and Boston Bruins organizations.
“An earnest and hardworking player, he was admired by his teammates and coaches. More important, he was a warm and generous person who was well-liked by all those fortunate enough to know him.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Emily, their families, and Colby’s countless friends throughout the hockey world.”
Large Impact
Many teammates spoke out in support of the Cave family or posted pictures and memories with Colby. Former teammate Tyler Benson took to Twitter to say, “Gone from us way too early. Was lucky enough to sit next to you all year in the dressing room always bringing a positive attitude and big smile to the rink. You were a warrior on the ice and a gentleman off it. Thanks for being a great teammate and friend. Rest In Peace Caver.”
Cave was from Battleford, Saskatchewan, and started his career with the Boston Bruins as an undrafted free agent. Bruins president Cam Neely said Colby “was and always will be a Bruin, and will be dearly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him.”
Cave scored one goal for the Oilers through 11 games this season. Over a span of 67 NHL games, Cave scored four goals and contributed five assists for the Bruins and Oilers combined.