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Maple Leafs react to Matt Murray’s victory in emotional return vs. Sabres
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Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
Arun Srinivasan
Dec 21, 2024, 08:20 ESTUpdated: Dec 21, 2024, 08:21 EST
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Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Matt Murray returned to NHL action for the first time in 20 months, and it was an emotional scene after recording a 6-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday. Murray made 24 saves in the winning effort.
The 30-year-old did not play in the NHL last season after undergoing bilateral hip surgery, playing in three games with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies during the 2023-24 campaign. Murray recorded a shutout with the Marlies on Wednesday, and was called up Friday, getting the start against Buffalo on Saturday, while operating as Toronto’s No. 2 goaltender during a stretch where Anthony Stolarz is on injured reserve.
“It was a busy day, a lot of emotions,” Murray said. “I tried to keep them in check for the most part, because obviously there’s a game to play. But I was able to take a moment there in warmups 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.”
It’s clear that Murray’s teammates and coaches were thrilled for Murray, after overcoming a long road back to the NHL.
“He went through a lot and I’m very happy for him,” Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said post-game. “I didn’t notice too much emotion. He was dialled in. We have two youngsters, but he has NHL experience.”
“It’s awesome to see,” Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews said of Murray. “The last year and a half, two years, I mean, we see him every day at the rink rehabbing, working out. It’s been a long journey for him and just an incredible, incredible person, so it’s awesome to see him get this one tonight and it’s extremely well deserved.”
Max Domi gave the team belt to Murray, awarded to Toronto’s best or most impactful player in a winning effort.
“I think we’re all so happy for (Murray) for what he’s been through,” Domi said. “Remarkable. The resilience and the ability to stick with it mentally, out of all those days that I’m sure he had a lot to doubt in there, and it’s a long road to recovery. We’re all super proud of him.
Murray will remain with the Maple Leafs for the foreseeable future, as the team tries to alleviate Joseph Woll’s workload in Stolarz’s absence. In any event, Murray’s return from a harrowing injury should be celebrated, as the Maple Leafs continue to stay atop the Atlantic Division while facing several injuries this season.

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