R.I.P.: Jassie Pierce, Hockey Writer and 3 Children

Jessi Pierce and Family

NHL Hockey writer Jessi Pierce, 37, died Saturday in a house fire that also claimed the lives of her three children, prompting an outpouring of grief from across the National Hockey League and the Minnesota sports community.

Pierce, a longtime contributor to NHL.com and a familiar presence at Minnesota Wild games, was remembered by the NHL as a passionate voice for the sport and a valued member of its editorial team for more than a decade.

“The entire National Hockey League family sends our prayers and deepest condolences to the Pierce family,” the league said in a statement. “Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade. We will miss her terribly.”

The loss reverberated throughout the hockey world, particularly in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, where Pierce covered the sport at every level and built lasting relationships with players, coaches and colleagues.

1989-2026

A fixture in the press box at Wild games, Pierce was known for her warmth and approachability, often greeting others with a smile and genuine curiosity. Alongside her work with NHL.com, she also contributed directly to the Wild organization.

“The entire NHL.com team is devastated and heartbroken,” said Bill Price, NHL.com’s editor-in-chief. “Jessi’s love of her family and hockey was evident in the energy and passion she brought to her work. She was an absolute joy to talk to and work with.”

Those who knew Pierce described her as insightful and unafraid to share her perspective, delivering analysis shaped by years of experience covering her hometown team, often with humor.

Nashville Predators coach Andrew Brunette, speaking Sunday, called her death “a tragedy,” recalling her as someone who “loved hockey, loved people” and brought positivity to every interaction.

Beyond her professional life, Pierce frequently spoke with pride about her children and often blended family with her work, occasionally bringing them along to practices.

She was also active across Minnesota’s sports media landscape, co-hosting the “Bardown Beauties” podcast, contributing to other outlets and maintaining a strong presence on social media.

Pierce’s path to becoming an NHL writer began with a dream she voiced at 18. Her career included stops in Minnesota, New York and Colorado before she realized that goal a decade ago. Her work appeared in numerous publications, including USA Hockey, The Athletic and regional hockey outlets.

A graduate of Iowa State University, Pierce covered multiple sports during her college years, building the foundation for a career that would make her one of the most recognizable voices in Minnesota hockey.

“The Minnesota Wild organization is heartbroken,” the team said in a statement. “Jessi was a kind, compassionate person who cared deeply about her family and those around her. She served as a dedicated ambassador for the game of hockey.”