Former Edmonton Oilers Draft Pick Suddenly Passes Away at the Young Age of 44

Kristian Antila, a goaltender who was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers but never made it to the NHL, has passed away at just 44 years of age

Some tragic news from the hockey world to pass along today. A goaltender who was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers has passed away at a young age.

Various reports state Kristian Antila died suddenly earlier this month. The cause of death has not been revealed.

The company that Antila had been working for as a salesperson made the announcement.

“Kristian was a hard-working, friendly and committed employee who impressed us all. He was always ready to listen, help and support others.

We will remember Kristian as a warm and caring person who loved being out in nature. His passing is a great loss and his memory lives on in our hearts.”

Kristian Antila was drafted in the fourth round, 113th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 1998. He came to North America in 2002, playing games in the AHL, CHL, and ECHL, before returning to Sweden.

“The 2003-04 season ended with AIK in HockeyAllsvenskan. Antila was then recruited to Luleå in the SHL before he was forced to put the skates on the shelf in 2005 due to groin problems.”

The news of Antila’s death comes at the same time as that of a former NHL referee who officiated more than 700 games . Earlier this month brought news of the passing of former hockey player and Olympian Andrzej Hachuła.

Our sincere condolences to all of the families involved.