Longtime Blackhawks Great and Broadcaster Troy Murray Dies at 63

Murray publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis in 2021 and continued to appear on Blackhawks broadcasts during his battle.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Former Chicago Blackhawks standout Troy Murray, who transitioned to the broadcast booth after his playing career, has died at the age of 63, the team announced. Murray, who was affectionately known as "Muzz," publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis in August 2021 and continued to appear on Blackhawks broadcasts during his battle, though his appearances eventually tapered off. He stepped away from the booth entirely ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.

Why it matters

Murray was a respected leader within the Blackhawks organization, having played for the team for over a decade and then transitioning to a broadcasting role. His passing is a significant loss for the franchise and the broader hockey community.

The details

Murray starred at center for the Blackhawks for more than a decade, topping 20 goals five times and becoming the team's first player to win the NHL's Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league's top defensive forward in 1986. After his playing career, he spent over 20 years as a Blackhawks broadcaster, though his appearances tapered off as he battled cancer.

  • Murray publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis in August 2021.
  • He stepped away from the Blackhawks broadcast booth entirely ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.

The players

Troy Murray

A longtime standout center for the Chicago Blackhawks who later transitioned to a broadcasting role with the team.

Danny Wirtz

The CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, who said the loss of one of the franchise's most respected leaders left the team "deeply heartbroken."

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Danny Wirtz, CEO, Chicago Blackhawks

“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.”

— Danny Wirtz, CEO, Chicago Blackhawks

The takeaway

Troy Murray's passing is a significant loss for the Chicago Blackhawks organization and the broader hockey community. As a standout player and respected broadcaster, he left an indelible mark on the franchise and the city of Chicago through his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering spirit in the face of his battle with cancer.