NHL Community Rallies Behind Former Coach Brad Larsen After Tragic Loss

The league and Larsen's former colleagues offer support following the passing of his wife Hannah after her battle with cancer.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:04am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in muted tones, conveying the emotional turmoil and sense of loss experienced by an NHL coach and his family.The NHL community's outpouring of support for a coach and his family reflects the deeper human bonds that transcend the ice rink.Columbus Today

The NHL community has come together to support former Columbus Blue Jackets coach Brad Larsen and his family following the tragic passing of his wife, Hannah, after her battle with cancer. Larsen himself has also faced cancer twice, and his wife was a pillar of strength for him during those challenging times. The outpouring of compassion from the league, including emotional messages from Larsen's former colleague John Tortorella, highlights the deep bonds and sense of community within the NHL.

Why it matters

This story goes beyond the typical sports narrative, showcasing the human side of the NHL and the power of empathy and support within the league's community. It challenges the stereotype of athletes and coaches as solely focused on winning, revealing a deeper layer of humanity that can inspire and uplift others facing similar struggles.

The details

Brad Larsen, a former head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, has endured the unimaginable loss of his wife, Hannah, who passed away after a battle with cancer. Hannah was a pillar of strength for Larsen, who has also faced cancer twice in his own life. The news of Hannah's passing was shared publicly by Larsen's former colleague, John Tortorella, who offered condolences and support on national television, highlighting the deep bonds and sense of community within the NHL.

  • Hannah Larsen passed away in April 2026.

The players

Brad Larsen

A former head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets who has endured the tragic loss of his wife, Hannah, after her battle with cancer. Larsen himself has also faced cancer twice in his life.

Hannah Larsen

The wife of Brad Larsen, who passed away after a battle with cancer. She was a pillar of strength for her husband during his own health challenges.

John Tortorella

A former head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets and a colleague of Brad Larsen, who publicly shared the news of Hannah Larsen's passing and offered condolences and support.

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What’s next

As Brad Larsen and his children navigate this difficult time, the NHL's embrace offers a glimmer of hope and comfort. The league's support and the outpouring of compassion from Larsen's former colleagues and the broader hockey community will be crucial in helping the family heal and find strength during this challenging period.

The takeaway

This story highlights the power of community and empathy within the NHL, challenging the stereotype of athletes and coaches as solely focused on winning. It serves as a reminder that sports can be a force for good, fostering a sense of unity and compassion that extends beyond the ice rink and into the lives of those facing unimaginable personal tragedies.