Heartbreaking news strikes for the Raddysh brothers amid record-breaking year
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Hunter Bowman
Mar 7, 2026 (2:48 PM)
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Photo credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The Tampa Bay Lightning locker room is heavy today. News broke Saturday that Dwayne Raddysh, father of Bolts defenseman Darren Raddysh and New York Rangers forward Taylor Raddysh, has passed away.
The loss comes after a public battle with stage four pancreatic cancer that the family has faced with incredible resolve since last May.
It is a somber moment for two brothers who have both navigated the grind of the professional ranks to reach the Show. Darren has been a revelation for the Lightning this season.
Under the guidance of head coach Jon Cooper, the elder Raddysh brother has exploded for 17 goals and 55 points through 54 games, cementing himself as a cornerstone on the blue line.
The timing is particularly cruel. Darren is currently playing the best hockey of his life, leading all Bolts defenders in offensive output while logging over 22 minutes of ice time per night.
Across the Hudson, Taylor Raddysh is also mourning while navigating his own season with the Rangers. Taylor, who has 15 points in 57 games this year, has spent the campaign carving out a role in a competitive New York lineup.
Both brothers have often cited their father's influence as the catalyst for their shared dream of reaching the NHL.
The hockey community has rallied around the family. The Lightning organization released a statement offering support to Darren during this difficult stretch.
It is expected that Darren will take a leave of absence to be with his family in Ontario, missing the upcoming road trip as the team continues its push for the Atlantic Division lead.
Support pours in for Raddysh family
Coach Jon Cooper, who recently dealt with the loss of his own father, Robert, knows this pain all too well. Cooper missed two games in late February to return to British Columbia.
That shared experience of grief has likely created a profound bond between the coach and his breakout defenseman during these dark hours.
The Lightning currently sit atop the Atlantic with 80 points, but the focus in Tampa has shifted entirely away from the standings.
Teammates have noted that Darren's "heavy shooter" mentality and work ethic on the ice are a direct reflection of the values his father instilled.
Losing a parent during a career-best year is a burden no player wants to carry. Darren's +15 rating and five game-winning goals show a player at the height of his powers, but those numbers feel hollow today.
May you rest easy, Dwayne Raddysh.
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