More sad news coming out from the hockey world today. Dallas Stars assistant GM Les Jackson has confirmed that prospect Scott Winkler has passed away.

Said Jackson to Dallas Morning News, “It’s just such a shock and so sad. He was a good kid with a bright future, and our thoughts go out to his family.’’

Stars General Manager Jim Nill would also release a statement. “The Dallas Stars are heartbroken to hear about Scott’s passing. Scott was a wonderful young man with great character and a bright future. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

Winkler, a native of Asker, Norway was found deceased this morning in his Norway home. The cause of death is not yet known.

Winkler, 23, recently finished his college hockey career at Colorado College and was expected to join the Dallas Stars AHL affiliate the Houston Stars for the 2013-14 season. Winkler had 13 goals and 28 points in 42 games for Colorado College this season. His numbers had been steadily improving over his time in the NCAA.

Winkler was the Stars’ 3rd round pick, 89th overall, in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Winkler’s family, friends, teammates, and all who knew this young man, and are grieving today. After a day filled with heartbreak lets hope this is the last such story we’ll be doing here for a while.

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