Senators owner Eugene Melnyk dies at 62

Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk died Monday at 62, the team announced.

"It is with great sadness that the family of Eugene Melnyk and the Ottawa Senators hockey organization announce his passing on March 28, 2022, after an illness he faced with determination and courage," the team's statement read.

Melnyk purchased the Senators in 2003 when they faced bankruptcy. The team earned nine playoff berths during his tenure, reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2007.

"The National Hockey League mourns the passing of Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk," commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement.

"The words 'passion' and 'commitment' define the man who has owned the Ottawa Senators since 2003. Whether it was in the boardroom with his fellow governors, at the rink with his beloved Senators, or in the community with his philanthropy, he cared deeply about the game, about his team, and about bettering the lives of those in need - particularly underserved children, organ donation, and, most recently, with his commitment to his parents' home country of Ukraine."

Senators captain Brady Tkachuk offered his condolences.

"Mr. Melnyk provided me, my teammates, and many Sens players who came before us with an opportunity to live out our dream. The Ottawa community will miss you greatly. Condolences to your family," Tkachuk wrote in a tweet.