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AHL game postponed following Craig Cunningham's on-ice collapse (Update)

Jen Neale

Frightening set of events unfolded in Arizona prior to the AHL game between the Tuscon Roadrunners and the Manitoba Moose as Roadrunners captain Craig Cunningham collapsed to the ice after the anthems.

The Arizona Daily Star first reported on the incident:

Cunningham collapsed just moments before the puck was scheduled to drop. He appeared to convulse after hitting the ice. Medics worked on Cunningham, who was lying on his back, and cut away his jersey. They performed chest compressions before moving him off the ice and into an ambulance.

Players returned to their respective dressing rooms. The AHL announced the game would be postponed with no makeup scheduled at this time.

UPDATE:

The Arizona Coyotes, parent organization of the Roadrunners, released a brief statement on Cunningham:

GLENDALE, ARIZONA — Arizona Coyotes General Manager John Chayka issued the following statement tonight regarding Craig Cunningham. The Coyotes and the Tucson Roadrunners will have no further comment at the present time.

“Arizona Coyotes center Craig Cunningham suffered a medical emergency on the ice prior to the start of tonight’s game between the Tucson Roadrunners and the Manitoba Moose at the Tucson Convention Center. Cunningham was taken to a local hospital where he is receiving medical treatment. Our thoughts and prayers are with Craig and his family. We will provide a medical update once we receive more information.”

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Coyotes coach Dave Tippett gave an informal update on Cunningham to beat writer Sarah McLellan following Arizona’s game:

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As word of Cunningham’s collapse spread around the hockey world, well wishes began to stream in from fans, organizations and players.

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Jen Neale is an editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at puckdaddyblog@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter!