The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Saturday, December 14, 2024, that former center Troy Murray had died at age 63. The team stated he passed away earlier that day.[1][2]

Murray, born July 31, 1962, in Calgary, Alberta, publicly disclosed a cancer diagnosis in August 2021 and underwent chemotherapy, with the cancer type kept private. He continued appearing on Blackhawks broadcasts during his treatment but stepped away ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.[1][2]

Chicago Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz said the organization was "deeply heartbroken," describing Murray as "the epitome of a Blackhawk" whose presence spanned 45 years. Wirtz noted Murray's determination during his cancer battle.[1][2]

Murray played 10 seasons with the Blackhawks from 1982 to 1992, returning for one more in 1994-95. In 673 regular-season games with the team, he scored 197 goals.[3][4] In the 1985-86 season, he became the first Blackhawks player to win the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the NHL's top defensive forward.[3][5]

Overall, Murray recorded 230 goals and 553 assists in 915 NHL regular-season games. He topped 20 goals in five seasons and also played for the Winnipeg Jets (1992-93), Ottawa Senators (1993), Pittsburgh Penguins (1993-94), and Colorado Avalanche (1995-96), with whom he won the Stanley Cup.[3][4]

After retiring, Murray coached for the Chicago Wolves and began broadcasting in 1998. He served as a Blackhawks radio color commentator starting in the 2006-07 season and as president of the Blackhawks Alumni Association.[2][5]

The Blackhawks described Murray as a respected leader remembered for his on-ice contributions, professionalism, and dedication to Chicago.[1][2]

Sources

1. Chicago Blackhawks. "Blackhawks Mourn the Passing of Troy Murray." December 14, 2024. https://www.chicagoblackhawks.com/news/blackhawks-mourn-passing-of-troy-murray
2. Fox News. "Former Chicago Blackhawks standout Troy Murray dies at 63." December 14, 2024. https://www.foxnews.com/sports/former-chicago-blackhawks-standout-troy-murray-dies-63
3. NHL.com. "Troy Murray - Stats." Accessed December 14, 2024. https://www.nhl.com/player/troy-murray-8453495
4. Hockey-Reference.com. "Troy Murray Stats." Accessed December 14, 2024. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/murraytr01.html
5. Wikipedia. "Troy Murray." Accessed December 14, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troy_Murray