HOCKEY HOF | ‣
Larry Murphy A Hall of Fame Defenseman with a Trophy Collection
Lawrence "Larry" Murphy carved his name into hockey history with a remarkable 21-season career. Renowned for his offensive prowess and defensive reliability, he solidified his place as one of the greatest defensemen ever to grace the ice.
Larry Murphy and Paul Coffey in 2008 at last game in the Igloo, Credit Michael Miller
Early Career and Record-Breaking Debut (1980-1985):
-Drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in 1980, Murphy made a sensational debut, setting rookie records for points (76) and assists (60) by a defenseman, a feat that still stands today.
-Despite his impressive individual performance, the Kings struggled to find consistent team success during his tenure.
Building a Legacy Across Teams: Minnesota, Pittsburgh, and Toronto (1985-1996):
-After stints with the Minnesota North Stars and Washington Capitals, Murphy found his championship calling with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1989.
-Partnered with fellow defenseman Paul Coffey, Murphy formed a potent offensive duo, contributing significantly to the Penguins' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992.
A Change of Scenery and More Championships: Detroit and a Legacy Cemented (1996-2001):
-In 1996, Murphy was traded to the Detroit Red Wings, forming another iconic defensive partnership with Nicklas Lidström.
-His veteran leadership and offensive contributions proved instrumental in the Red Wings' Stanley Cup triumphs in 1997 and 1998, solidifying his reputation as a player who elevated any team he joined.
Larry Murphy and Paul Coffey in 2008 at last game in the Igloo, Credit Michael Miller
Early Career and Record-Breaking Debut (1980-1985):
-Drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in 1980, Murphy made a sensational debut, setting rookie records for points (76) and assists (60) by a defenseman, a feat that still stands today.
-Despite his impressive individual performance, the Kings struggled to find consistent team success during his tenure.
Building a Legacy Across Teams: Minnesota, Pittsburgh, and Toronto (1985-1996):
-After stints with the Minnesota North Stars and Washington Capitals, Murphy found his championship calling with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1989.
-Partnered with fellow defenseman Paul Coffey, Murphy formed a potent offensive duo, contributing significantly to the Penguins' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 1991 and 1992.
A Change of Scenery and More Championships: Detroit and a Legacy Cemented (1996-2001):
-In 1996, Murphy was traded to the Detroit Red Wings, forming another iconic defensive partnership with Nicklas Lidström.
-His veteran leadership and offensive contributions proved instrumental in the Red Wings' Stanley Cup triumphs in 1997 and 1998, solidifying his reputation as a player who elevated any team he joined.
