NY Rangers Forward Derek Boogaard Passes Away

The New York Rangers announced on Friday evening that left wing Derek Boogaard has passed away. Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune first reported the news on Twitter Friday evening, stating that the 28-year-old forward was found dead in his apartment by his family. An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death. In 22 games this past season with the Rangers, Boogaard had one goal and one assist for two points and 45 penalty minutes. He missed 51 games this past season, as well as all five of New York's playoff games, with a shoulder injury. Boogaard signed a four-year contract with the Rangers on July 1, 2010 worth $6.6 million. In 277 career NHL games with the Minnesota Wild and New York Rangers, he had three goals and 13 assists for 16 points and 589 penalty minutes. This is very tragic news this Friday evening, as it's always very sad to see an NHL player's life cut so short. My deepest sympathies go out to the family, friends, and teammates of Derek Boogaard.