Former Washington Capitals forward Sergei Berezin has passed away suddenly at the age of 52. The NHL Alumni Association announced the sad news on social media on Wednesday.
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected the Voskresensk, Russia native in the 10th round of the 1994 NHL Draft. Berezin finished his NHL career in 2003 with the Capitals after spending eight seasons with the Leafs, Phoenix Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, and Chicago Blackhawks. He registered a total of 286 points (160g, 126a) in 502 NHL games.
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
The Maple Leafs released a statement on X about Berezin’s passing Wednesday evening.
“We are incredibly saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Sergei Berezin,” the Leafs wrote. “Sergei was drafted by Toronto in 1994 and spent five seasons with the Leafs. He ranks 32nd all-time in playoff scoring. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Berezin’s best season came in 1998-99, when he set career highs with 37 goals and 59 points for the Leafs. He added six goals and six assists in 17 playoff games as Toronto advanced to the Eastern Conference Final.
During his short stint with the Capitals, Berezin recorded nine points (5g, 4a) in nine games. Washington acquired him from the Blackhawks at the 2003 trade deadline in exchange for a fourth-round draft selection. Berezin also played six playoff games for the Capitals that season and recorded one assist.
After retiring from the NHL, Berezin spent one more season in professional hockey with the RSL’s CSKA Moscow. He also spent time with the RSL’s Khimik Voskresensk and DEL’s Cologne Sharks before coming stateside to Toronto.
RMNB sends our sincerest condolences to the Berezin family. May Sergei rest in peace.
