GhLinks Media
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Rodion Amirov has died after being diagnosed with a brain tumour last year.
He was 21.
The Maple Leafs confirmed Amirov died Monday in Munich, Germany, where he had been receiving treatment.
They also posted a tribute to Amirov on Scotiabank Arena’s outdoor video board.
“The entire Maple Leafs organization is devastated by this tragic loss,” said Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan in a statement. “Over the duration of his courageous battle, Rodion’s positivity inspired everyone around him, and he made lasting impressions with our team and fans in his brief visits to Toronto.”
Amirov signed a three-year entry-level contract with Toronto in April 2021 after being selected 15th overall by the NHL club in the 2020 entry draft.
Former Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas announced in February 2022 that Amirov had been diagnosed with a brain tumour and was undergoing treatment. He missed the entire 2022-23 season as he underwent treatment and recovery.
“It’s incredibly hard to comprehend the loss of Rodion,” Maple Leafs captain John Tavares said on social media. “His smile and joy for life and hockey was infectious.
“My teammates and I are grateful for our time spent with him and forever inspired by his courageous fight. Condolences to his loved ones. We’ll miss him dearly.”
Amirov extended his contract with his hometown Salavat Yulaev in Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League on May 10 after the Maple Leafs agreed to a one-year loan for the 2023-24 season.
