Fans Saddened By Death Of Former NHL Player Rodion Amirov At 21

Rodion Amirov, a 2020 first-round pick for the Toronto Maple Leafs, died at age 21.

His agent, Dan Milstein, confirmed that Amirov passed away two years after being diagnosed with a brain tumor.

"We will always remember his courage, his desire, his will, his smile, all of the great things about him," Milstein wrote on social media.

The Maple Leafs said they're "devastated by this tragic loss."

"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," the team wrote. "It's incredibly sad to see a young man with so much promise taken from us so soon."

Onlookers mourned Amirov's death and sent well wishes to his loved ones.

"Unfortunate news. Was around Rodion for only a short period of time but he was a very nice kid and even better player," Maple Leafs winger Nicholas Robertson wrote. "Thoughts and prayers go out to Amirov’s family and friends. Rest in [peace] Rodion."

"Absolutely tragic to hear of the passing of Rodion Amirov," a fan wrote. "Way too young."

"So devastating to see a young man with so much life left ahead of him be gone way too soon," TSN's Christopher Horvat said. "Rest in Power, Rodion."

"This is an incredibly sad day for hockey," hockey analyst Nathan "Grav" Murdock wrote. "Fantastic player but an even better person, RIP Rodion."

"This is so sad. Sending my deepest sincere condolences to his family and friends," a fan said. "Once a Leaf, always a Leaf, young man. You’ll be remembered here."

Amirov scored nine goals in the KHL at age 19 before signing an entry-level contract with Toronto in 2021. The team revealed his diagnosis in February 2022.

Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this crushing loss.