With Anthony Stolarz out, Matt Murray will play in an NHL game for the first time since Apr. 2, 2023 The Toronto Maple Leafs emerged victorious in the latest installment of the Battle of the QEW, defeating the Buffalo Sabres [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/buffalo-sabres/] 6-3 on Friday night – their second win in five days against the club. Despite earning their third straight win, the game’s most notable storyline was focused on the emotional NHL comeback of goaltender Matt Murray. The 30-year-old made his first start in the NHL since April 2, 2023, when he left a game against the Detroit Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/] with an injury. That marked the beginning of a challenging journey back to the NHL level. After undergoing bilateral hip surgery and a lengthy recovery process, Murray’s return to the Maple Leafs was nothing short of inspirational. “I took it as a challenge. And it was a long road, a big mountain to climb,” explained Murray post-game. “I kept this moment in front of my mind on those days when it felt tough. And again, I had people around me to keep me focused. So I wouldn't be here without them.” Called up from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies Friday morning, Murray had little time to process the moment. On Wednesday, he posted a 27-save shutout with the Marlies. With a record of 4-1-2, a .931 save percentage, and a 1.85 goals-against average in the AHL this season, his strong start earned him the call-up. “Man, it was a busy day, a lot of emotions,” Murray admitted. “Try to keep them in check for the most part because obviously there was a game to play. But I was able to take a moment there in warm-ups and during the anthem and just kind of look around and appreciate the long journey that it's been and think of all the people who helped me get here.” Murray stopped 24 of 27 shots against the Sabres, securing his first NHL win in 638 days. The victory also improved his career record against Buffalo to 7-2-1. With the win, Murray secured the belt from his teammates for the player of the game. When the game hit zeros on the clock, Murray explained the feeling as “a rush of emotion, a big release.” “Great to celebrate with the guys. And, you know, a lot of very kind words from me in the room afterward too, which, again, it meant a lot,” said Murray. With their 21st win of the season, the Leafs sit atop the Atlantic Division. The team has been rolling, outscoring opponents 16-9 over their three-game winning streak. Despite Buffalo’s struggles – now on a 12-game losing skid – Murray credited his teammates for their strong play, helping him get settled. “I felt really good in the first. A couple of weird timing miscues in the second. Other than that, it felt pretty solid throughout,” Murray explained. “We played extremely well in front of me. I think the first period was the difference-maker in the game. I think the team had a great first period. So thankful. Thankful to get the win.” When asked about his motivation to keep pushing through adversity, Murray’s answer was simple yet profound. “There's definitely times where it feels really difficult. Whenever I felt like that, I had a great group of people around me. And again, that's the only reason why I'm here,” said Murray. “Getting back to the NHL was obviously in the front of my mind the whole time. It was what I was working towards. And it was a long road, but just super thankful for the opportunity to get back here.” As the Leafs controlled the game all night long, the club chased a goalie out of the crease for the second straight game while Murray held down the fort. Over his nine-year career, Murray has won two Stanley Cups and has posted a record of 147-86-24 – but the victory has to be high on the list of career wins. Signed with the Leafs on a one-year, $875,000 contract this offseason, his experience and availability could prove invaluable as the organization maneuvers a knee injury to goaltender Anthony Stolarz. It’s been a long road to get back to this point, and it’s safe to say this was one for the memory book.
