After a long break from the NHL playoffs, goaltender Matt Murray finally returned to the big stage. Though the Toronto Maple Leafs had a tough night against the Florida Panthers in Game 5, Murray’s return was still a positive moment for fans. At 30 years old, he stepped in during the third period after starter Joseph Woll gave up five goals. It was a small chance, but a big moment in his comeback story.
Murray’s Strong Start in the NHL
Matt Murray started his NHL career with a bang. He was an important part of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2016 and 2017.
In the 2015-16 season, he only played 13 regular-season games but impressed with a 9-2-1 record, a strong 2.00 goals-against average (GAA), and a .930 save percentage (SP). During the playoffs that year, he became the main goalie and helped the team win 15 out of 21 games, finishing with a 2.08 GAA and .923 SP.
In the next season (2016-17), Marc-Andre Fleury started the playoffs for the Penguins. But during the Eastern Conference final against Ottawa, Murray replaced him. He again performed well, with a 1.70 GAA and .937 SP, winning 7 of 10 games and helping Pittsburgh lift the Cup again.
Tough Years with the Senators and Injuries
After his success with the Penguins, Murray was traded to the Ottawa Senators in 2020. His time there was not as smooth. Over two seasons, he played just 47 games and won only 15. In July 2022, Ottawa traded him to the Toronto Maple Leafs along with two draft picks.
Injuries slowed down his progress. He suffered from head, neck, hip, abductor, ankle issues, and more. Because of these health problems, Murray only managed to play three games in the 2023-24 season, and all of those were in the AHL for the Toronto Marlies.
A Strong Comeback in the AHL
Murray worked hard on his recovery and made a solid return in the 2024-25 season with the Marlies. He played 21 games and had a record of 10 wins, 5 losses, and 4 overtime losses. His performance was impressive with a 1.72 GAA and .934 SP. On December 20, 2024, he played his first NHL game since April 2023 and helped the Maple Leafs win against the Buffalo Sabres.
Leafs’ Playoff Journey and Murray’s NHL Return
The Maple Leafs entered the 2024-25 playoffs with confidence. They beat the Senators in six games to reach the second round for only the second time since 2004. They then took a 2-0 lead in the series against the Panthers.
But things took a turn. Florida won Games 3 and 4, tying the series. In Game 5, the Leafs were down 5-0 when Murray came in to relieve Woll. Florida scored one more goal, but Murray managed to stop 6 of 7 shots.
Although it wasn’t an ideal situation, Murray’s return to the NHL playoffs showed his determination and hard work. It gave the team and fans something to smile about on an otherwise difficult night.
Matt Murray’s journey is a story of ups and downs. From winning the Stanley Cup early in his career to struggling with injuries and setbacks, he never gave up. His return to the NHL playoffs with the Toronto Maple Leafs proves that with effort and patience, a comeback is always possible. Even though the Leafs had a tough game, Murray’s presence was a bright spot and showed that he still has the skills to compete at the top level.
