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Toronto Maple Leafs won't receive compensation pick after the passing of Rodion Amirov

Published August 15, 2023 at 10:41
BY JOSH

Yesterday news broke that Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Rodion Amirov had lost is battle with cancer. Amirov was just 21-years-old at the time of his passing and despite his young age he left a mark on everyone he came in contact with. After Amirov's passing some fans began to ask if the Maple Leafs could potentially receive compensation after Amirov's passing.

I know it's not the right time for this, but the #LeafsForever    should 100% be awarded a 1st round pick in 2024 as compensation for losing a former 1st round player over an unforseen circumstance (pick 33).


Fans began to immediately reference the Cherepanov rule, a rule which saw the Rangers receive a 2nd round compensation pick after Alexei Cherepanov passed away during a game of a heart issue.


After his death, the New York Rangers sought compensation in the form of an extra draft pick from the NHL. As Cherepanov had not agreed to terms with the club at the time of his death, the team claimed that he was technically eligible to be selected in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, and they were entitled to compensation. The team was eventually awarded the 17th selection of the second round in the 2009 draft, after the Rangers' proposal was approved by the rest of the league. NHL general managers also voted to adopt a rule change, dubbed the "Cherepanov rule" that would see any future teams receive compensation if a prospect selected in the first round dies before signing a contract.


Unfortunately for the Leafs, this rule was adopted only applies to players WITHOUT an NHL contract. While Amirov was diagnosed with the brain tumor in February of 2022, he was signed to a contract in April of 2021. During his battle the Maple Leafs made every single medical resource available to both Amirov and his family, ensuring they had everything they needed.

However, given the rules the Maple Leafs will not be entitled to any draft pick compensation. The Leafs will still have the option of petitioning the league for compensation, but knowing they did everything possible to help Amirov is likely enough for the Maple Leafs at this time.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Maple Leafs organization, Amirov family and anyone impacted by his passing.
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August 15   |   177 answers
Toronto Maple Leafs won't receive compensation pick after the passing of Rodion Amirov

Should the Maple Leafs receive a compensation draft pick?

Yes, they should7642.9 %
No, rules are rules4324.3 %
Fans worried about this need help5832.8 %
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