Maple Leafs' Captain Makes Heartfelt Statement following Death of Teammate

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TJ Tucker
August 14, 2023 (5:55 PM)

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It's clear the death of a young prospect has left the Toronto Maple Leafs reeling . It was announced earlier today that Rodion Amirov, the 15th overall pick of the Maple Leafs in 2020, has passed away following a two-year battle with a brain tumour. Now the team's captain is reacting.

John Tavares released a statement on Twitter that summed up the feelings of the entire team.

"It's incredibly hard to comprehend the loss of Rodion. His smile and joy for life & hockey was infectious. My teammates & I are grateful for our time spent with him & forever inspired by his courageous fight. Condolences to his loved ones. We'll miss him dearly. #RodionForever - John Tavares

While he did not play for the Leafs, Amirov had attended rookie and training camps with the team before heading home to play in the KHL. The winger appeared to have a lengthy NHL career ahead of him before his illness was discovered. The KHL, where he played 70 games over the course of three seasons, held a moment of silence for him following a pre-season game.

Amirov had travelled to different countries for treatment of his disease, and it seemed at one point that he was doing better. Our sincere condolences to his family, friends and teammate

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