Maple Leafs former first-round pick Rodion Amirov diagnosed with brain tumor

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas announced Wednesday morning that former first-round pick Rodion Amirov has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Amirov was Toronto's first pick at 15th overall during the 2020 NHL Entry Draft.

"Rodion commenced the 2021-22 season with Salavat Ufa of the KHL but suffered an injury to open the season. During the course of his recovery from this injury, he developed some new, unrelated symptoms that required ongoing extensive investigations over the last few months," Dubas said in a statement. "Rodion is currently undergoing treatment at a medical facility in Germany and will not return to play for the remainder of the season."

Joshua Kloke of The Athletic reported that according to Amirov's agent, the skater "is in good spirits and is determined to return back to professional hockey."

Dubas noted that the team will be working closely with Amirov to provide him with top-notch healthcare through the process. 

"Our medical staff has been involved throughout the process alongside Ufa's and we are in direct contact with the facility on an ongoing basis to monitor his treatment and care. Rodion has the complete support of the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and we will continue to ensure he receives the best care possible throughout this process," Dubas said. "Out of respect for Rodion and his family, the Club will not have any further comment at this time."