Died “bodyguard” Pavel Bure
Former NHL player Gino Odijk has died at the age of 53. He was one of the most popular Vancouver players during his time with the club.
Former National Hockey League (NHL) forward Gino Ojic has died at the age of 52. About it informs league press office.
The cause of death has not been reported. In 2014, Odjik suffered a heart attack. He was diagnosed with amyloidosis (a disorder of protein metabolism). After being diagnosed, Odjik said doctors weren’t sure how long he had left to live, but warned it might be “months or even weeks.”
Tough Guy was selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the fifth round (No. 86) of the 1990 NHL Entry Draft. Odzhik became one of the most popular players from the club due to his strong play style and ability to stand up for teammates, including Pavel Bure. In the media, the Canadian striker was nicknamed the “bodyguard” of Bure. The legendary Russian hockey player has repeatedly called Odzhik one of his best friends.
“I feel like I’ve been very lucky in my life,” Ojic wrote in a letter to fans. – During my career I played for the clubs of the great cities. I will always be the Canucks in my heart. I have always had a special relationship with the fans here. Your chants regarding me were my favorite. I wish I might hear them once more. You were amazing.”
“Gino has been a fan favorite since joining the Canucks,” said Vancouver owner Francesco Aquilini. “He put his heart and soul into every shift on the ice, and he also inspired many and became the epitome of what it means to be Canadian. He was my close friend, I might turn to him for advice and support. He will be greatly missed.”
Odjik was one of Canada’s first Indigenous NHL players (Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg).
“Everyone knew who Gino Odjik grew up with,” said Canucks defenseman Ethan Bear, a representative of the Ochapovac people. “He was definitely one of the first Indigenous players to pave the way for others.”
Odjik played in the NHL from 1990 to 2002. He also played for the New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers and Montreal Canadiens. He has 137 points (64 goals and 73 assists) in 605 regular NHL games.
