(CNN) -- An autopsy is scheduled Saturday for New York Rangers enforcer Derek Boogaard, whose body was discovered a day earlier in his Minneapolis apartment, a medical examiner said.
Authorities and the team have released few details about his death.
"A cause and manner will be confirmed after the autopsy, which will be done tomorrow," a spokesman for the Hennepin County Medical Examiner said late Friday.
Boogaard, 28, began his NHL career with the Minnesota Wild.
He joined the New York Rangers in July last year, and appeared in 22 games during the 2010-11 season.
"Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual," New York Rangers President Glen Sather said on the team's website.
"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."
Boogaard supported the Defending the Blue Line Foundation, a nonprofit that ensures the children of military personnel get the opportunity to play hockey.
While with the Rangers, he created "Boogaard's Booguardians, which hosted military families at home games, according to the website.
Boogaard was a native of the Canadian city of Saskatoon in central Saskatchewan.
CNN's Rick Martin contributed to this report.
