OHL prospect Kazbekov dies, had played Friday

LONDON, Ontario — London Knights center Abakar Kazbekov has died, the team and the Ontario Hockey League announced Saturday. He was 18.

No other details were provided in the joint statement. Kazbekov, who was from Russia, played in a 5-2 home victory over the Owen Sound Attack on Friday.

Statement from the London Knights and the Ontario Hockey League on the sudden passing of Abakar Kazbekov. pic.twitter.com/JgpYOZq3fk

— London Knights (@LondonKnights) December 17, 2022

The player from Moscow had been a member of the Knights since the start of last season. He previously played in the Russian under-16 and under-18 leagues.

Kazbekov registered one assist in 12 appearances with London this season. He scored one goal in nine games last season.

The Knights and OHL said London’s game Saturday night against the Flint Firebirds had been postponed.