In sad news today Sergei Berezin, a former Toronto Maple Leafs player from 1996 until 2001, and a seven-year NHLer overall has passed away at the age of 52. The NHL Alumni Association released the news today. This is a sad day in the hockey community as he played on five teams in his NHL career. Furthermore, he had a reputation as an NHLer as a goal scorer, who could strike with speed and a fast, accurate shot. His career-high came in 1998-99 as a member of the Leafs with 37 goals.
The NHL Alumni Association is heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of Sergei Berezin at the age of 52 years old.
Sergei was drafted in the 10th round of the 1994 Entry Draft to the @MapleLeafs. He would soon show his spectacular play when he joined the Leafs roster in… pic.twitter.com/WoB3bn8X3S
— NHL Alumni (@NHLAlumni) June 26, 2024
In Sad Toronto Maple Leafs News a Former Player, Sergei Berezin, Passes Away
Besides his 502 career regular season games in the NHL, he also added 52 Stanley Cup playoff games. In addition, he played in Russia, at the highest-level, for five seasons, and another two in Germany. He was extremely talented and had a very productive professional hockey playing career.
The statement released from the alumni association was very caring for everyone who knew and felt the impact Sergei on their lives at this time. They went on to mention in his retired life “he enjoyed coaching minor hockey, playing tennis, and most importantly, spending time with his family.”
This is a sad time, and everyone in the hockey community will need to take the time they need at this time.
Berezin NHL Career Highlights Came With the Leafs
In Toronto in the late 90s, everything seemed to come together for Berezin. Between 1998-99 and 2000-01, he was extremely productive. Over those three NHL seasons, he scored 85 regular season games as a member of the Leafs. And, one part of his game that ultimately won him over with the Leafs hardcore fanbase was his productivity carried over to the post-season grind. In those same three seasons’ post-seasons, he tallied 12 goals.
Main photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
