It is with the deepest sorrow and heaviest of hearts that the Chicago Blackhawks announce that Troy Murray handed away on Saturday on the age of 63. The Blackhawks group shares within the heartbreak felt by the whole Blackhawks group immediately as we mourn the loss of our beloved “Muzz.”
Born in Calgary, Alberta, on July 31, 1962, Murray rose to prominence as a standout two-way middle throughout his collegiate profession on the University of North Dakota, incomes WCHA Rookie of the Year honors as a freshman earlier than serving to the workforce win the NCAA championship throughout his sophomore marketing campaign.
Selected within the third spherical (57th general) of the 1980 NHL Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks, Murray rapidly established himself as a key contributor in Chicago who grew to become identified for his management, defensive accountability and regular offensive manufacturing.
Throughout the Nineteen Eighties and early Nineties, Murray grew to become a fan-favorite in Chicago for his work ethic and consistency on the ice. It was those self same traits that earned him the Frank J. Selke Trophy because the NHL’s high defensive ahead for the 1985-86 season, changing into the primary participant in Blackhawks historical past to win the award. Over elements of 12 seasons in Chicago, Murray amassed 488 factors (197G, 291A) in 688 regular-season video games and cemented his legacy as one of the franchise’s most revered leaders.
In addition to his time in Chicago, Murray served as captain of the Winnipeg Jets for his two seasons with the membership, whereas additionally taking part in for the Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins and Colorado Avalanche. A 1996 Stanley Cup champion with Colorado, he completed his NHL profession with 584 factors (230G, 354A) in 915 regular-season video games over 15 seasons.
After retiring as a participant, Murray remained deeply linked to the Blackhawks group. He transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, serving as the workforce’s radio shade analyst for greater than twenty years. His insightful commentary, deep understanding of the sport, and unmistakable voice made him a trusted presence for generations of Chicago hockey followers and earned him high honors from the Illinois Broadcasters Association as the very best sports activities play-by-play workforce alongside WGN Radio sales space accomplice John Wiedeman.
He remained dedicated to the bonds he constructed within the locker room lengthy after his taking part in profession ended, taking over an lively and integral management function as President of the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association. Through his work with the CBAA, Murray helped to look after his fellow alumni of their post-career endeavors and give again to the local people via his involvement in their yearly scholarship program for highschool hockey gamers in Illinois.
In 2021, Murray publicly shared his most cancers prognosis, approaching his battle with the identical resilience and candor that outlined his taking part in days. He continued working and partaking with the Blackhawks group, inspiring many together with his energy and positivity.
Troy Murray is remembered not just for his contributions on the ice, however for his professionalism, humility, and dedication to town of Chicago. He leaves behind a long-lasting legacy throughout the Blackhawks household and the broader hockey world.
