In rather shocking news, the New York Rangers have announced that forward Derek Boogard has been found dead in his Minneapolis apartment. He was 28 years old.
↵Boogard was one of the tougher fighters/agitators in the league and one of those guys that drew a lot of dislike from the opposition, but was really loved by his team’s fans both in New York and in his native Minnesota. So far, there’s been no details released about the circumstances of his death. The Rangers did release a statement.
↵↵↵“Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual,†Rangers president and general manager Glen Sather said. “He was a very thoughtful person, who will be dearly missed by all those who knew him. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.â€
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Boogard’s passing is the third such sports death in the past week. Former NBA player Robert “Tractor” Traylor was found dead at 34 years old, as was 21 year old University of Alabama LT Aaron Douglas.
↵Suffice to say, it’s a rather sad and grim week in the world of sports.