Beloved NHL Announcer Troy Murray Passes Away at 63 A respected longtime NHL announcer has passed away at the age of 63. Troy Murray, who spent 12 seasons as a player with the Chicago Blackhawks before transitioning to broadcasting, died after a battle with cancer. His death was announced by the team, which highlighted his legacy as both a former player and a trusted voice for the franchise. Murray, a third-round pick in the 1980 NHL Draft, played for the Blackhawks for a decade before retiring from the ice. He later returned to the team for a second stint, amassing 197 goals and 488 points in 688 games across two separate periods. His career also included stints with the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, and Pittsburgh Penguins. After retiring as a player, Murray became a color analyst for the Blackhawks, appearing on both television and radio broadcasts. His contributions to the team extended beyond his on-ice achievements, as he was celebrated for his professionalism and dedication to the city of Chicago. Murray’s battle with cancer was first disclosed in 2021, when he shared his diagnosis publicly. At the time, he expressed his determination to face the challenge, though he did not specify the type of cancer he was fighting. Throughout his illness, he remained a visible figure in the hockey community, participating in events like Hockey Fights Cancer nights and inspiring fans with his resilience. Bill Wirtz, a Blackhawks executive, praised Murray’s impact, calling him a “smart, gritty center” who earned the respect of fans through his skill and leadership. Wirtz also noted Murray’s courage in continuing his work as an announcer despite his illness, describing him as a source of inspiration for the hockey world.#chicago_blackhawks #troy_murray #bill_wirtz #hockey_fights_cancer #nhl
