NHL world reacts after tragic death of 25-year-old Oilers player Colby Cave

The hockey world was stunned on Saturday with the passing of Edmonton Oilers player Colby Cave. According to a report from USA TODAY Sports, Cave was placed in a medically induced coma on Tuesday following a brain bleed, and emergency surgery to relieve pressure that a cyst was placing on his brain.

Cave, an Oilers player who previously played for the Boston Bruins, was just 25 years old. He leaves behind his wife, Emily, and his parents. In a note through the team website, Emily wrote:

“It is with great sadness to share the news that our Colby Cave passed away early this morning. I (Emily) and 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.”

NHL players took to social media to post tributes to Cave.

One of the best guys you’ll ever meet. Proud to call you a friend. From a fellow sasky boy, you will be missed dearly. Rest In Peace Caver. ❤️

— Damon Severson (@dseves7) April 11, 2020

Rest In Peace Caver ! Heartbreaking news I was Lucky enough to be your friend and teammate , you always had positive attitude with that smile of yours and I’ll always remember you..

— davidpastrnak (@pastrnak96) April 11, 2020

I will always miss our days together in providence. Best roommate you could ever ask for always picking up after @ACzarnik7 and I love you buddy RIP Caver

— Frank Vatrano (@Frank_Vatrano) April 11, 2020

Rest In Peace Colby cave 🙏♥️ Thought and prayers to his family and friends.

— Robin Lehner (@RobinLehner) April 11, 2020

Truly sad news to hear about the passing of @EdmontonOilers player Colby Cave. My thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family. #RIPColby

— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) April 11, 2020

The hockey world lost a member of our family today. Colby Cave RIP. Thoughts and prayers to his family! ❤️

— Andrew Shaw (@shawz15er) April 11, 2020

Really terrible news this morning. We are praying for the Cave family 🙏🏻❤️

— Rocco Grimaldi (@RGrimaldi23) April 11, 2020

Man this 2020 just ain’t it. Tragedy after heartbreak and the cycle seems to just continue. As tough as it is our only choice is to persevere. I just truly hope and pray the Lord is with the Cave Family today and helping them through this unimaginable loss. 💔🙏🏽

— Akim Aliu (@Dreamer_Aliu78) April 11, 2020

To the Cave family and everybody who knew him. It just really sucks, all there is to it. Hug your loved ones even tigher and lean on them. Can end at anytime for no reason #ripcolbycave

— Kurtis Gabriel (@kurtisgabriel) April 11, 2020

Janet and I are so sad to hear of Colby’s passing. He was a wonderful hockey player with a bright future, but an even better person. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Emily and his entire family. 🙏

— Wayne Gretzky (@WayneGretzky) April 11, 2020

The hockey world is a small one. This one hits hard today. Rest easy, Colby. My deepest condolences to the Cave family and friends. Sending lots of love and prayers your way❤️🙏

— Zac Dalpe (@ZacDalpe22) April 11, 2020

No words to describe how I feel u were not only a great hockey player but also a great person,had the chance to get to know you during 6 years playing against each other in WHL/AHL my deepest thoughts and condolences to his wife Emily and his entire family Rest In Peace Colby 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/y4YPZH121N

— Tim Bozon (@timbozon94) April 11, 2020