Nashville center Sergei Zholtok dies

NASHVILLE, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- The Nashville Predators confirmed Wednesday night that center Sergei Zholtok had died in Latvia at the age of 31.

While the NHL lockout was in progress, Zholtok had been playing with a team in his home of Riga. He reportedly became ill during a game, collapsed and died before he could be taken to a hospital.

"We are all saddened and shocked to hear of Sergei's sudden passing," said David Poile, general manager of the Predators.

"He was a hard-working player who was liked by his teammates and coaches. We extend out deepest sympathies to the Zholtok family."