Former NHL defenceman Zarley Zalapski dead at 49

Today the hockey world is saddened as former NHL defenceman Zarley Zalapski has passed away at the age of 49.

Former NHL defenceman Zarley Zalapski died at the age of 49 on Tuesday.

Zalapski played in the NHL between 1987-1998 and a 12-game stint during the 1999-00 season.

Originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins fourth overall in 1986, Zalapski made stops playing for the Hartford Whalers, Calgary Flames, Montreal Canadiens and Philadelphia Flyers.

Ken King, President & CEO, Calgary Flames Hockey Club, released the following statement:

[blockquote]We are deeply saddened with the news of Zarley’s passing. We are proud that Zarley wore the Flames jersey; made Calgary his home following his playing career; represented our alumni executive; and we will always remember him as a member of the Flames family. This is a terrible loss of a man with great character who truly loved the game of hockey. We express our sincere condolences to the Zalapski family.[/blockquote]

During his 637 games of NHL experience, Zalapski scored 99 goals and 285 assists while racking up 684 penalty minutes.

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