New York Rangers Prospect Dies During Game in Russia

NEW YORK – A 19-year-old prospect for the New York Rangers prospect has died during a game in Russia on Monday.

Alexei Cherepanov was selected in the first round of the 2007 NHL draft and was playing in Russia's Continental Hockey League. The Rangers announced the death but did not elaborate.

General manager Glen Sather said "Alexei was an intelligent, energetic young man, with tremendous talent and an extremely bright future."

Cherepanov, a forward, had seven goals and five assists in 145 games with Avangard Omsk this season. In the 2008 Under-20 World Junior Championships, he led Russia to a bronze medal.