Terrible tragedy strikes Mark Scheifele ahead of Game 6.

This is simply awful.

The Winnipeg Jets have made a stunning and heartbreaking announcement just hours before they play the most important game of their season on Saturday night in Game 6 against the Dallas Stars.

It was Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff who was tasked with delivering the tragic news that Brad Scheifele, the father of Jets star forward Mark Scheifele, had passed away during the night.

"We've got some sad news to share here today," said Cheveldayoff his voice understandably tinged with emotion. "Unfortunately Mark Schiefele's father passed away through the night. As an organization we are doing everything we can to support and we give his family our most sincere condolences. Ask that everybody respect his and their privacy at this time."

It sounds like there is now some real doubt about whether or not Mark will be able to play in tonight's Game 6, which again is completely understandable given the horrible circumstances.

"We spoke to the team this morning," confirmed Cheveldayoff. "[Scott Arniel] will be back at 4:30 to address all of you and will have an update at that point in time."

Cheveldayoff struggled to get through the press conference, overcome with emotion at the awful situation, but again expressed his love and sympathy for the Scheifele family.

"Just again from our family deepest sympathies..." said Cheveldayoff trailing off as his voice broke with emotion.

A horrible situation for the Jets but more importantly a truly horrible day for the Scheifele family. My most sincere condolences go out to Mark, his family, the Winnipeg Jets and anyone else impacted by today's terrible news.