SHIPPAGAN, New Brunswick — Luc Bourdon, a promising rookie defenseman with the Vancouver Canucks, was killed Thursday when his motorcycle struck a tractor-trailer in a crash near his hometown.
He was 21.
His death was confirmed by sister Eve Bourdon and stepmother Maryse Godin. Both declined further comment when reached at the family’s home in Shippagan.
“Luc was an extremely talented player with a bright future,” Canucks general manager Mike Gillis said. “He brought great passion to the game and was a valued team member on and off the ice.”
Bourdon was the first-round draft pick of the Canucks in 2005, selected 10th overall. He split time this season with the Canucks and the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. In 27 games with the Canucks, he scored twice and had no assists.
“Luc had a promising life and career ahead of him and he will certainly be missed,” said Paul Kelly, executive director of the players’ union.
