Scotty Bowman talks about the passing of Sergei Mnatsakanov, former Detroit Red Wings

That year, the team persevered through the heartbreaking loss of all-star defenseman Vladimir Konstantinov and team masseur Sergei Mnatsakanov, both of whom suffered severe brain injuries in a limousine crash shortly after the Detroit Red Wings' 1997 Stanley Cup win.

Mnatsakanov passed away recently in Florida at the age of 71. Bowman, who stayed close to Mnatsakanov and his family, expressed deep sadness over the loss. He remembered Mnatsakanov as a beloved massage therapist and a joyful presence within the Detroit Red Wings organization.

The crash also involved defenseman Slava Fetisov, who fortunately survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Scotty Bowman reflected on how the tragedy could have been worse, noting that Igor Larionov nearly joined the ill-fated limousine ride but was spared by a last-minute decision to spend time with his children.

Source: DetHockeyNow
Former Red Wings Coach Bowman Saddened by Mnatsakanov Death

Source: NHL
Scotty Bowman bio