Friend Or Foe, Abbey Murphy Brings Excitement To The Game

Abbey Murphy is one of the most skilled and exciting players in hockey, and her on ice flare have earned her critique and celebration as one of women's hockey's rising personalities.

Last season, University of Minnesota forward Abbey Murphy pulled the "Ridly Greig" firing a slapshot into the empty net of Minnesota-Duluth. It was enough to draw national attention.

But for those who have watched Murphy play, it was just another moment in her in your face style. Whether she's a friend or foe, Murphy has elicited reactions on many occasions in the hockey world for her pesky, often pesty style, that she blends with elite level skill, speed, and physicality.

This past weekend, Murphy was at it again, this time on a penalty shot. Coming in against Boston University, Murphy slowly flipped the puck up and over Terriers netminder Mari Pietersen who slid out of reach of the puck as it slowly dropped into the back of the net.

Then, like it was 2015, Murphy skated back into open ice, stopped, and dabbed. 

The goal and celebration again lit social media on fire as people discussed Murphy.

Last season, Murphy finished third in the NCAA with 62 points in 39 games, and tied for the national lead with 33 goals. This year, Murphy is off to another hot start with five goals and seven points through four games.

The Team USA standout has one more season of NCAA eligibility remaining, although she may declare for the 2025 PWHL Draft, where she'd immediately become a contender for first overall.