Marek Svatos dead at 34

Marek Svatos, a scoring winger for several seasons with the Colorado Avalanche, has died.

He was 34 years old.

Svatos appeared in 344 games in an NHL career that spanned seven years. He had four productive seasons with the Avalanche, scoring 87 goals and totaling 151 points from 2005-09.

Avalanche general manager and former teammate Joe Sakic released this statement regarding Svatos' passing on behalf of the organization:

The entire Avalanche organization is extremely saddened by this news. Marek was a tremendous person, a talented hockey player, and a great teammate. Our thoughts, prayers and our deepest sympathy to his wife, children, and his entire family.

Svatos had stints with the Nashville Predators and Ottawa Senators as well, finishing with 100 goals and 172 points for his career.

He represented Slovakia at the 2006 Olympics in Turin.

Svatos is survived by his wife and two children.