Pittsburgh Penguins v New York Rangers
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - Adam Johnson (#47) of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on March 25, 2019 in New York City. The Penguins defeated the Rangers 5-2. Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

Mourning blanketed the world of ice hockey over the weekend after a freak accident that led to the death of former Pittsburgh Penguins Adam Johnson during a hockey game.

Johnson played 13 games for the NHL's Penguins during the 2018-19 season before transferring to Nottingham Panthers in England's Elite Ice Hockey League.

Local reports have confirmed that Johnson, 29, died after getting his throat cut by a skate blade during a game against the Sheffield Steelers. The incident occurred in the second period when the Panthers were trailing 1-2.

The game was stopped at the 13:47 mark of the second period, and other games were suspended. The Panthers organization immediately sent out their condolences to the family and friends of the American player.

"The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night," his team said in a statement.

"The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time." "Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him."

Call for better player protection raised

Immediately after the news of Johnson's freak accident broke out, calls for better player protection have been raised. Boston Bruins affiliate Providence made their players wear neckguards on Sunday.

Tributes also poured in for Johnson.