Oilers provide medical update on Colby Cave, who is still in coma

Edmonton Oilers forward Colby Cave is still in a medically induced coma, two days after rushing to hospital after an overnight brain bleed.

“This is giving his brain time to heal and rest from all he’s been through,” said Cave’s family in a statement released by the Oilers. “We would like to thank the Oilers organization, the entire hockey community, all of our friends, and family, and everyone who has shown us love and support.

“We would like to send a big thank-you to Colby’s critical care team, neurosurgeons and nurses at Sunnybrook Hospital. We appreciate all that you are doing for our Colby.”

The 25-year-old was admitted to the critical care unit at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto on Tuesday.

“Last night and today have been the worst days of my life,” Colby’s wife Emily said on Instagram. “Colby is currently in surgery and they are fighting to keep him alive. We need a miracle. Please pray for my husband and best friend.”

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Cave had emergency surgery where doctors removed a colloid cyst that was causing pressure on his brain, the Oilers said.

The Battleford, Saskatchewan, native split this season with the Oilers and AHL Bakersfield Condors, appearing in 11 NHL games. He has appeared in 67 NHL games with the Oilers and Boston Bruins during his career.

Speaking on a video conference call with media today, Oilers captain Connor McDavid expressed his well wishes for his teammate.

“This was devastating news,” McDavid said. “Colby is such a strong guy. He’s a good Saskatchewan boy and he’s as tough as they come, so if anyone is going to be able to get through this, it’s going to be Colby Cave.

“Everyone just needs to keep Colby, Emily his wife and the entire family in their thoughts and prayers and sending out good vibes to them. We pray that he can come out of this and pray that the family can get through it, because I can’t imagine how hard it is on them as well.”

The Oilers also announced today that their players have come together to contribute $100,000 to assist with COVID-19 support in the community.

“We know COVID-19 has hit many people in our community and around the world,” said McDavid. “We felt it was important to pledge our support to the community during this difficult time. This is a small gesture, but we hope it can help those who are struggling.”