Chicago Blackhawks Legend Troy Murray Passes Away at 63 Following Cancer Battle
Troy Murray, a beloved figure who dedicated nearly half a century to the Chicago Blackhawks organization as both a player and broadcaster, died on Saturday after a long and courageous fight against cancer. He was 63 years old.
"Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career," said Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz in an emotional statement. "His presence was felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years."
A Storied Playing Career with the Blackhawks
Murray was originally selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 NHL Draft. He spent his first ten seasons with the Blackhawks, playing a total of twelve seasons within the organization across his professional hockey journey. His absence leaves a profound void in the hearts of the Chicago hockey community.
Before transitioning to broadcasting, Murray established himself as one of the most talented players on the Blackhawks roster. His standout season came in 1985-86 when he achieved career highs with 45 goals, 54 assists, and 99 points across 80 games. This remarkable performance earned him the prestigious Selke Trophy, awarded to the league's best defensive forward.
Accomplishments and Legacy Across the NHL
Over his playing career, Murray accumulated impressive statistics:
- 915 regular-season games with 230 goals and 584 total points
- Played for Chicago, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Pittsburgh, and Colorado
- 113 playoff games with 17 goals and 43 points
- Won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in his final NHL season (1995-96)
Seamless Transition to Broadcasting and Iconic Partnership
After retiring from professional hockey, Murray seamlessly moved into broadcasting. He joined the Blackhawks broadcast team in 1998, serving as a studio analyst and color commentator before forming an iconic partnership with John Wiedeman in the radio booth in 2006.
Together, Murray and Wiedeman called three Stanley Cup championship seasons for the Blackhawks in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Through his voice on the airwaves, Murray became as integral to Blackhawks hockey for a new generation of fans as he had been on the ice decades earlier.
Courageous Battle with Cancer and Inspiring Return
Murray received his cancer diagnosis on August 9, 2021. Despite undergoing chemotherapy treatments every other Monday, he demonstrated incredible resilience by refusing to stay away from the broadcast booth. He made a triumphant return to call a full broadcast on December 15, 2021, during a 5-4 overtime victory against Washington.
"I can't say enough how much it means to me and my family to get the amazing support we've had," Murray said during that emotional broadcast. "I'm just glad to be back on the air."
Wirtz noted that throughout Murray's health struggle, it was frequently observed that he possessed no "give up" in his character. The Blackhawks organization has vowed to honor his memory by carrying forward that same indomitable spirit.
