Rodion Amirov given the royal treatment at Leafs home opener
The Leafs' 2020 first round pick, Rodion Amirov, should be competing for a roster spot by this point. Instead, the young Russian winger has spent the better part of the last year undergoing radiation treatments for a brain tumor. Amirov has stayed positive throughout his fight with cancer and continued to work towards his goal of being a Toronto Maple Leaf. Now that he's finished four rounds of treatments, he can resume his journey towards the NHL.
The Leafs brought Amirov to Toronto to get acquainted with the team and staff and to spend some time in the city this fall. At the home opener on Thursday night, Amirov was introduced as an honorary Leaf alongside injured players Timothy Liljegren, Carl Dahlstrom and 2022 2nd round pick Fraser Minten.
The Leafs had a strong showing in the game. Dominating play for large stretches and putting together a much better performance on defence, they came away with a well earned 3-2 win. Amirov was invited to the dressing room and joined the post game celebration. It's not yet known what the plan is going forward for Amirov as far as hockey is concerned. He is under contract for 1 more season with his KHL club and is eligible to be returned to Salavat Yulaev on loan, just as we was last season, but given the unique circumstances with Amirov's health and the current situation in Europe, he may stay in Toronto. Either way, the little taste of life as a Leaf he's been given will serve as excellent motivation for him as he tries to get his playing career back on track after his courageous battle. As a fellow survivor, I absolutely can't wait to see it.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 14 | 138 ANSWERS Rodion Amirov given the royal treatment at Leafs home opener Where is the best spot for Amirov when he's ready to return? | ||
| With the Toronto Marlies | 111 | 80.4 % |
| With Salavat Yulaev in the KHL | 27 | 19.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
