Matt Murray’s career has been marked by dramatic highs and some tough challenges. As a two-time Stanley Cup champion and an experienced NHL goaltender, Murray’s recent playoff return for the Toronto Maple Leafs has brought his name back into the hockey spotlight.

Matt Murray’s Early Glory with the Pittsburgh Penguins

Drafted in the third round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2012, Matt Murray quickly proved himself as a clutch performer. He stepped in during the 2016 playoffs, helping lead the Penguins to their Stanley Cup victory. Murray’s performance was stellar, finishing that postseason with a 15-6 record and a .923 save percentage. Remarkably, he repeated this success the next year, capturing a second consecutive Cup with a .937 save percentage in the 2017 playoffs. His early accomplishments cemented his reputation as a goaltending phenom.

For more on Murray’s rise and how he helped the Penguins secure back-to-back Stanley Cups, this detailed Yahoo Sports article offers a comprehensive overview.

Journeys Through Ottawa and Toronto

Following his time in Pittsburgh, Matt Murray was traded to the Ottawa Senators in 2020. Expectations were high as the Senators signed him to a four-year, $25 million contract. However, Murray’s stint with Ottawa was challenging. He struggled to find consistency and the team failed to make the playoffs during his tenure. Eventually, Murray was traded to the Maple Leafs in 2022, signaling a new chapter in his career.

To learn more about his journey from Ottawa to Toronto and his first postseason stint since leaving Ottawa, read this feature from SenShot.

Playoff Comeback: Relief Duty for the Maple Leafs

After enduring double-hip surgery and missing the entire 2023-24 season, many wondered if Matt Murray would play at the highest level again. But NHL playoffs never lack drama. In Game 5 of the 2025 second-round series against the Florida Panthers, Joseph Woll, the Leafs' starter, was pulled after giving up five goals. This opened the door for Matt Murray to step back onto playoff ice for the first time since 2020. Murray made six saves in relief, allowing only a single power-play goal.

Sportsnet covers how the Leafs turned to Murray for relief in Game 5, giving insight into the impact of the goalie switch on both team morale and game outcome.

Matt Murray’s Ongoing Resilience

Despite setbacks with injuries and team changes, Matt Murray’s willingness to step up in challenging moments showcases both resilience and professionalism. His career total so far—147 wins and a .910 save percentage over 274 NHL games—highlights just how valuable he’s been when healthy and called upon.

Fans and analysts alike continue to watch Murray’s next steps, curious if he can reclaim a regular starting role or help guide the Maple Leafs deeper into the postseason.

Conclusion

Matt Murray’s journey through the NHL has been anything but linear. From his breakout as a Stanley Cup rookie to battling injuries and fighting for his spot, his story epitomizes perseverance. With his latest playoff appearance, Murray’s career remains a testament to the unpredictable and inspirational world of professional hockey. For fans eager to keep track of his ongoing legacy, staying tuned to each new chapter is a must.