More than a hockey man
times when we didn’t see eye to eye.
His general manager’s track record with the Senators includes great trades (Craig Anderson for Brian Elliott and Kyle Turris for David Rundblad) and bad deals (Cory Conacher for Ben Bishop).
Over the years, there were some disputes over words that were written, of opinions he didn’t share.
In most cases, though, Murray chose to address them with open communication, rather than letting an issue fester.
He might have offered a quip or two at a reporter he wasn’t happy with – just like, as a coach, he might have dealt with an illadvised Jason Spezza pass or poor defensive zone coverage in the dressing room – but there was always a recognition of and a respect for our business.
Unlike some others in his position within the game, he never acted bigger than it all. He was simply part of it all, always appreciating his good fortune at being employed in the business of a game for so long.
Make no mistake, though. Murray took losing as hard as anyone. You didn’t have to look far to find the passion.
As a coach, he offered some choice words — and then some — while regularly jawing with referees. We witnessed the fiery temper that saw him almost go toe-to-toe with “friend” Lindy Ruff during the celebrated brawl versus the Buffalo Sabres in 2007.
As a general manager, his angst while watching the play unfold on the ice from the press box was a spectacle in itself. Murray was also not above offering post-game tirades to officials who made a questionable call or two. He would defend his players to a fault.
That, of course, goes a long way in understanding why there has been such a heartfelt responce to his passing.
From Washington, where he coached the Capitals for 8 seasons and won the Jack Adams Trophy as coach of the year in 1983-84. From Detroit, where he helped set the table for the Red Wings dynasty while serving as general manager from 1990-94. From Florida, where he acted as both coach and general manager for the Panthers. He was in the GM’s chair when the Panthers advanced to the Stanley Cup final in 1996.
Before coming to the Senators, Murray was a coach and GM in Anaheim. With Murray serving as Ducks general manager, Anaheim went to the Stanley Cup final in 2003.
When Murray coached the Senators to the Stanley Cup final in 2007, he lost to the Ducks team he helped build.
It’s quite the impressive hockey history to be sure, but let’s also always remember the fun and life that Murray brought to the sport.
R.I.P.