Maple Leafs' Prospect Diagnosed with Brain Tumor to Join KHL Club for Preseason

On February 23 of this year, it was reported that the 2020 #15 pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Rodion Amirov, had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just over 18 months after being drafted, Amirov had to undergo his recovery which has kept him off the ice for almost four months.

The good news is, after his hiatus, the Leafs' prospect is set to join his KHL club -- Salavat Ufa -- for their upcoming preseason roadtrip, an encouraging measure for the 20-year old. It was initially reported by Russian Newspaper Sport Express that Amirov blacked out after a hit during a game, which is what sparked the initial concern. Upon further examination, his diagnosis was announced and his road to recovery began.

Amirov scored 3 points in 10 games for Salavat before his season was cut short. In 70 career games, the 20-years old has managed 18 points; do consider the bulk of his career was played aged 18 and 19. At the 2021 World Junior Championship, Amirov scored two goals, four assists for 6 points in 7 games for Russia.

Amirov should still be considered a strong hockey prospect for Toronto. His D+1 production showed some real upside and had people talking, which makes his unfortunate ordeal all the more so. While I am interested to see how he plays this season, I think the focus rests more so on the fact that he is playing and in good spirits.

Salavat will play three games in five nights, and it is unclear as of yet what role Amirov will play. I would imagine he will receive fair consideration in a light role, so as to gauge where he stands physically and mentally. This is great news for hockey fans as well as Maple Leafs' fans.

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