Unknown Date, 2001; New York, NY, USA; FILE PHOTO; Mighty Ducks of Anaheim right wing Paul Kariya (9) on the ice against New York Rangers defenseman Tomas Kloucek (22) and Mike Richter (35) at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY NETWORK

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Former NHL Defenseman Tomas Kloucek Passes Away in Skiing Accident at 45

The ex-Rangers player tragically lost his life in a skiing accident in Czechia. His wife confirmed the news, and tributes have poured in.

Former New York Rangers defenseman Tomas Kloucek has sadly passed away at the age of 45 following a skiing accident in his home country of Czechia. According to reports, Kloucek collided with a power pole at the Spindleruv Mlyn ski resort on Sunday, suffering fatal injuries on the spot. His wife confirmed the heartbreaking news in an Instagram post, and HC Ocelari Trinec, one of his former teams, also issued a statement mourning his loss.

Kloucek was selected 131st overall by the Rangers in the 1998 NHL Draft and played 141 NHL games over six seasons, primarily with New York. A hard-hitting defenseman known for his physical play, the Prague native recorded 10 points (two goals, eight assists) and 250 penalty minutes in his NHL career. After spending two seasons with the Rangers from 2000-02, he went on to play for the Nashville Predators and Atlanta Thrashers, along with their AHL affiliates.

The NHL Alumni Association is heartbroken to learn that Tomáš Klouček has passed away at the age of 45.

A defenceman, the New York Rangers selected Tomáš with the 131st pick in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft after three seasons with his hometown HC Slavia Praha of the Czechia U20… pic.twitter.com/P54PtprmVj
— NHL Alumni (@NHLAlumni) March 17, 2025

“We are saddened by the news that Tomas Kloucek has died after a tragic accident, The sharp defender played a total of 90 matches for Ocelář. We wish his family and loved ones a lot of strength. Our sincere condolences.” : the club wrote (loosely translated).

Barbara Klouckova, Tomas Kloucek’s wife, confirmed his passing in an Instagram post on Monday.

“Yesterday, after a grievous accident, my husband, my universe, my love, dad of our children and your friend Tomas Kloucek abandoned us forever, All of you who were around him deserve to know. Please respect our privacy and grief we are grappling with right now.” : she wrote.

Following his NHL stint, Kloucek continued his professional hockey journey in Europe, playing in various leagues, including the KHL. He retired in 2017 after finishing his career in France with Epinal Hockey Club.

Kloucek’s untimely passing is a devastating loss to the hockey community, and he will be remembered for his toughness on the ice and dedication to the sport.

Image Credit: Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY NETWORK

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