Father of Maple Leafs’ Mark Giordano dies unexpectedly
Maple Leafs veteran defender Mark Giordano’s father has died.
The team confirmed in a quick statement on their X account early Friday evening that Paul Giordano died unexpectedly on Thursday night.
“Our prayers are with Mark and his family during this incredibly difficult time and we ask for their privacy,” the Leafs wrote on their Facebook page.
The Calgary Flames and Seattle Kraken, Giordano’s past NHL teams, expressed their sympathy.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Mark and the entire Giordano family,” the Flames said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time.”
Giordano played for the Flames for 15 seasons, serving as captain from 2013 to 21.
Giordano captained the Kraken in their expansion season of 2021-22 before being traded to the Leafs in March 2022.
“We’d like to send our heartfelt condolences to Gio, his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the Kraken said in a statement on X.
On Saturday, the Leafs will play host to the Anaheim Ducks.
