NHL legend Lyndon Byers diagnosed with severe Stage 3 CTE nearly one year after Boston Bruins icon's death

Former Boston Bruins forward Lyndon Byers was found to have severe Stage 3 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in new findings released by the Boston University CTE Center. The news comes almost a year after he died at the age of 61. Byers’ case has again put concussion-related risks in professional hockey under scrutiny, as he’s known as one of the most physical enforcers in NHL history. The update has also generated conversations about long-term brain health in contact sports and changes to player safety in the National Hockey League.

Lyndon Byers of Boston Bruins CTE diagnosis details emerge

Following his death, the UNITE Brain Bank at the Boston University CTE Center examined Lyndon Byers’ brain and confirmed he had Stage 3 CTE. Researchers looked at donated brain tissue and saw advanced degenerative changes consistent with repeated exposure to head trauma.

Byers, a former Boston Bruins forward, had been exhibiting signs of serious neurological deterioration before his death. Stage 3 CTE is considered to be a severe form of the disease, and is often linked to memory loss, cognitive dysfunction and behavioural changes.

His job was a product of the NHL era when fighting was an integral part of the game. But those roles are becoming more and more associated with the danger of long-term brain injury, including CTE-related conditions diagnosed in retired players.

The diagnosis matters because it adds to a growing body of evidence that links repeated head trauma in hockey to long-term neurological disease. The National Hockey League already is facing growing pressure to improve its concussion protocols and rein in dangerous hits.

His wife, Anne Byers, has also spoken about the emotional toll of the condition, describing personality changes and problems with memory and mental health. Her comments have added new urgency to efforts to improve protections and education around head injuries in pro hockey.

Lyndon Byers is the latest name on a growing list of former NHL players diagnosed with CTE after retirement or death. It bolsters the case of medical researchers and advocates for player safety who say the rules on preventing head injuries should be more stringently enforced.

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