Sergei Berezin, who played five of his seven NHL seasons with Toronto and was a reliable scorer for the Maple Leafs, has died at 52.

The NHL Alumni Association announced Berezin’s death in a social media post Wednesday. A cause of death was not provided.

Berezin, from Voskresensk, Russia, was selected by the Maple Leafs in the 10th round, 256th overall, at the 1994 NHL draft.

He played five seasons with the Maple Leafs, passing the 20-goal mark in four of them.

“We are incredibly saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Sergei Berezin,” the Leafs said in a statement on X. “Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

His best season came in 1998-99 when he set career highs with 37 goals and 59 points. He added six goals and six assists in 17 playoff games as the Leafs advanced to the Eastern Conference final before losing to Buffalo in five games.

One of his most memorable goals came in the first round against Philadelphia that season. He scored with one minute left in Game 6 as the Leafs won the series with a 1-0 victory.

Berezin was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes for Mikael Renberg after the 2000-01 season.

He had 286 points (160 goals, 126 assists) over 502 career NHL games with Toronto, Phoenix, Montreal, Chicago and Washington and added 30 points (13 goals, 17 assists) over 52 playoff games.

Former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Sergei Berezin has passed away at the age of 52. The news of his death has shocked and saddened the hockey community, as Berezin was a beloved player during his time with the Maple Leafs.

Berezin was born in Voskresensk, Russia in 1971 and was drafted by the Maple Leafs in the 10th round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Leafs in the 1996-1997 season and quickly became a fan favorite with his speed, skill, and scoring ability.

During his time in Toronto, Berezin played a total of 331 games and scored 126 goals and 118 assists for a total of 244 points. He was known for his dynamic style of play and his ability to score clutch goals in big moments.

After leaving the Maple Leafs, Berezin went on to play for several other NHL teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, and Washington Capitals. He also spent time playing in Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League before retiring from professional hockey.

Berezin’s passing has been met with an outpouring of condolences from former teammates, coaches, and fans. Many have fond memories of watching him play and remember him as a talented and dedicated player who gave his all on the ice.

Our thoughts are with Sergei Berezin’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be remembered as a talented player who left a lasting impact on the game of hockey and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.