Maple Leafs Honour Rodion Amirov During Marlies’ Calder Cup Celebration
On a night dedicated to celebrating young talent within the Maple Leafs organization, the memory of Rodion Amirov was front and centre as the Toronto Marlies captured the Calder Cup.
No. 72 Hangs in Locker Rooms as Tribute
Amirov’s training camp sweater, bearing the number 72, was displayed in the Marlies’ locker room at the Coca-Cola Coliseum as well as at the team’s training facility at the Ford Center. The jersey was revealed on the ice following Friday’s Calder Cup victory, serving as a poignant reminder of the young forward who was selected by Toronto in the first round of the 2020 NHL Draft.
Marlies general manager Ryan Hardy wore the sweater as the championship trophy was passed among the staff. Amirov’s fellow Russian and playoff MVP Artur Akhtyamov held the jersey at the centre of the team photograph, ensuring Amirov’s presence was felt throughout the celebration.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Amirov, a product of Ufa, Russia, was diagnosed with a brain tumour two years after being drafted. He passed away in 2023 in Munich, Germany, where the Maple Leafs had arranged for him to receive treatment at a specialty medical clinic. The organization also provided him with access to ice time on the days he felt strong enough to skate.
During his draft year, the talented forward had impressed with 24 points in 27 games, showcasing the skill that made him a first-round selection. In 2022, he made a symbolic return to Toronto with his family for training camp, though he fell ill during the visit. Before Amirov flew home, Leafs president Brendan Shanahan presented him with one of the first bronzed team medallions he had created. The medallion featured a vintage Maple Leaf on one side and the motto “Honor, Pride and Courage” embossed on the other.
Amirov was not the only one to receive the special medallion. Leafs legend Borje Salming, who was battling ALS at the time, was also honoured with the same keepsake.
Coaches and Teammates Remember Amirov
Marlies head coach John Gruden spoke warmly about welcoming Amirov into the organization, describing the young forward’s enthusiasm as contagious. Amirov made every effort to live as normal a life as possible during his time with the club.
Winger Ryan Tverberg, who was the final pick for Toronto in the 2020 draft, never had the opportunity to meet Amirov, as that year’s draft was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the lack of a personal connection, Tverberg said the presence of Amirov’s sweater in both facilities meant a great deal to the team.
