Former Maple Leafs player Passes at 52

The NHL Alumni Association announced on Wednesday the passing of former Toronto Maple Leafs winger Sergei Berezin at age 52.

The Russian-born Berezin was drafted by the Leafs in the 10th round of the 1994 NHL Draft and debuted two years later. He quickly made an impact, scoring 25 goals in his rookie season and earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team.

Berezin's standout season came in 1998-99 when he scored 37 goals and added 22 assists for a career-high 59 points. He played a crucial role in the Leafs' playoff run, scoring six goals and six assists, including the series-winning goal against the Philadelphia Flyers in the first round. The Leafs advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to the Buffalo Sabres.

In 2001, Berezin was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes and later played for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and Washington Capitals. He finished his career with 126 goals and 94 assists.

Berezin also won a silver medal for the Soviet Union in the 1991 World Juniors. After retiring, he enjoyed coaching minor hockey, playing tennis, and spending time with his family.

The Toronto Maple Leafs expressed their condolences on social media, saying, "We are incredibly saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Sergei Berezin. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time." No cause of death has been disclosed.