London Knights Forward Passes Away Suddenly

London Knights forward Abakar Kazbekov has passed away suddenly at the age of 18.

A tragedy has struck the hockey world. 

The London Knights shared absolutely heartbreaking news on Saturday morning, announcing that forward Abakar Kazbekov has passed away suddenly at the age of 18. 

The Knights' game on Saturday night in London versus the Flint Firebirds has been postponed. 

"Abakar has been a valued member of the team since 2021. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates," said a joint statement by the London Knights and the OHL.

"Our hearts go out to the Kazbekov family and the entire London Knights organization." said the Firebirds in a response on Twitter. 

The news of Kazbekov's passing comes as a shock to all corners of the hockey landscape. Kazbekov was of Russian nationality and played in the Russian U-16 and U-18 leagues, but his hometowns were Richmond Hill, Ont. and Moscow.

Kazbekov joined the Knights as a 17-year-old in 2021 as the No. 1 overall pick in the OHL U-18 draft, suiting up in nine games for the club and recording his first OHL goal on Oct. 12 of that year. In 12 games with the Knights this season, Kazbekov registered one assist. 

Our thoughts are with his family and friends in this heartwrenching time.