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Monday, May 16, 2011

Oilers Update - Derek Boogaard Passes.

The NHL lost one of the toughest enforcers to ever play the game last week.  28 year-old Derek Boogaard was found dead inside his apartment last Friday night in Minneapolis by his brothers, Aaron and Ryan.


The Hennepin County Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy the following day, however the results will not be released for another two weeks, as noted by county spokeswoman Carol Allis.


Despite his 6'8" 265 lb frame, the "Boogey Man" as he was often referred to on the ice for his pugilistic prowess, Boogaard was regarded to be a very benevolent person.


"Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual." said New York Rangers President and GM Glen Sather.  "He was a very thoughtful person, who will be dearly missed by all those who knew him. We extend out deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time." 


Yesterday, it was announced by the Boogaard family that Derek's brain will be donated to the Boston University School of Medicine for trauma research.  The announcement comes to no surprize to the hockey world, since ex-NHL enforcer Bob Probert died last year from a degenerative brain disease, as discovered by medical researchers at BU.  Boogaard sat out the remainder of the 2010-11 season with a concussion; and now the Boogaard family is hoping for the research team to see if Derek's injury contributed to his death.  


Boogaard played a total of 277 games while collecting 3 goals and 13 assists with 589 penalties in minutes.




       

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