Former Toronto Maple Leafs Player Jason Spezza Mourns Brother’s Death

A former player with the Toronto Maple Leafs is grieving the loss of his younger brother. Jason Spezza, who now serves as the assistant general manager for the Pittsburgh Penguins, issued a statement revealing that his brother Matthew, 37, passed away from an accidental overdose. The Spezza family is devastated by the tragedy and has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Matthew Spezza, a resident of Mississauga, had his own career in hockey, playing as a goaltender in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and International Hockey League (IHL) during the 2000s. His final season was with the Flint Generals in 2008/2009.

Photos on Matthew’s Instagram account display his special bond with Jason. One picture captures the brothers during an NHL-sponsored mentor trip to New York City.

Before moving to the Penguins organization, Jason Spezza had an extensive 19-year NHL career as a centerman, playing for the Ottawa Senators, Dallas Stars, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. He also had a stint in the Maple Leafs’ front office.