Murray rejoins Penguins after father's death

Goaltender Matt Murray rejoined his Penguins teammates Monday after a trip home to Thunder Bay, Ontario, following the death of his father.

Murray left the team on their recent West Coast trip to be with his family. He was very emotional after returning to practice Monday, and expressed appreciation for the support.

"Just want to say a big thanks, first of all, to Pittsburgh,” he said. “I want to thank my team. They did a lot for me."

TRENDING NOW:

• Alex Hribal sentenced in Franklin Regional stabbing
• Andrew McCutchen thanks Pittsburgh, Pirates fans in emotional letter
• Funeral home director charged with stealing $284,000 from seniors who pre-paid for funerals
• VIDEO: Teenager shot in leg in Pittsburgh neighborhood

Murray knows that getting back to a routine with his teammates will be helpful.

"Hockey definitely took a back seat for a couple days," Murray said. "But when you're out there, it's kind of a sanctuary."

Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan knows how difficult a time this is for his young goalie.

"It's difficult to lose a parent,” Sullivan said. “Everybody grieves in different ways.

“It's great to see him on the ice and join the team. I will have a conversation with him this afternoon but we will take it day by day.”

Cox Media Group