Rangers Prospect Cherepanov Dies

Alexei Cherepanov, a first round pick of the Rangers in 2007, collapsed during a game in Russia today and died, he was 19. While the details are still emerging, it seems that Cherepanov collapsed first on the ice and then on the bench during the third period his team, Omsk’s, game Monday. According to TSN, the ambulance that is normally at all games in the Kontinental Hockey League was absent and had to be called back. Medical authorities tried to restart his heart, but they were unsuccessful. Rangers GM and President, Glen Sather, issued the following statement: "We are extremely saddened by the tragic passing of Alexei. On behalf of the New York Rangers organization, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family. Alexei was an intelligent, energetic young man, with tremendous talent and an extremely bright future."