Chicago Blackhawks great Troy Murray dies aged 63 after cancer battle
Former Chicago Blackhawks forward and longtime broadcaster Troy Murray has died at the age of 63.
The NHL franchise confirmed on Saturday that Murray had passed away following a battle with cancer.
Affectionately known as "Muzz", the Calgary native revealed his diagnosis in August 2021 and had been undergoing chemotherapy.
He continued to work on team broadcasts with a reduced workload before stepping away entirely during the current season.
‘The epitome of a Blackhawk’
Murray spent 12 seasons with Chicago as a player before transitioning into a successful media career that spanned decades.
Danny Wirtz, the Blackhawks chairman and chief executive, stated that the organisation was "deeply heartbroken" by the loss.
"Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk so far beyond his incredible playing career, with his presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years," said Wirtz.
The team executive highlighted Murray’s resilience during his illness.
"During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him.
"While our front office won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Troy."
A decorated career
Selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 draft, the centre made his debut as a 19-year-old during the 1981-82 campaign.
He was renowned for his two-way play, becoming the first player in franchise history to win the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league’s top defensive forward.
That accolade came during his standout 1985-86 season, where he recorded career highs of 45 goals and 99 points.
Across a 15-year NHL career, the former University of North Dakota star played 915 games, scoring 230 goals and registering 584 points.
While synonymous with Chicago, Murray achieved the ultimate team success elsewhere, lifting the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996.
He also served as captain of the Winnipeg Jets and had stints with the Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Voice of the team
Following his retirement from playing, Murray began his broadcasting career in 1998.
He became a staple of the Blackhawks’ radio and television coverage, analysing the game for the fanbase he had once played for.
Beyond the booth, he maintained a deep connection to the club as the president of the Blackhawks alumni association.
Before turning professional, Murray had captained Canada to a gold medal at the 1982 World Junior Championships.
The Blackhawks stated that funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.