Blue Jackets announce plans to honour Matiss Kivlenieks

On Wednesday, the Columbus Blue Jackets announced that they will be honouring their late goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks.

"The Blue Jackets have announced a special tribute to the life of Matiss Kivlenieks on opening night. His mother, stepfather, sister, and aunt will all be in attendance and participate in a ceremonial puck drop. His number 80 will be lifted into the rafters for this season. #CBJ" CBJ Coverage said on Twitter on Wednesday.

They added, "Number 80 will also be visible behind both goals on the ice for the first two games (vs ARI & vs SEA). All players will wear a number 80 sticker on their helmets throughout the season."

Kivlenieks passed away in July following a fireworks accident at the home of former Red Wings netminder and current Blue Jackets goalie coach, Manny Legace.

The Riga, Latvia native went undrafted and signed with Columbus in May of 2017. Kivlenieks made eight career appearances in the NHL and had a record of 2-2-2, with a 3.09 G.A.A., and an .899 save percentage.

The ceremony will take place on October 14th when the Blue Jackets open the 2021-22 season against the Arizona Coyotes.

Number 80 will also be visible behind both goals on the ice for the first two games (vs ARI & vs SEA). All players will wear a number 80 sticker on their helmets throughout the season.— CBJ Coverage (@CBJcoverage) October 6, 2021

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