Ray Shero, Stanley Cup-Winning GM, Passes Away at 62

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Ray Shero, a prominent figure in the NHL and a Stanley Cup-winning general manager, died Wednesday at the age of 62. His passing was confirmed by the league, which extends condolences to his friends and family.

Shero, who served as the general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New Jersey Devils, was renowned for his role in building championship teams. Under his leadership, the Penguins won the Stanley Cup in 2009, marking a significant achievement in his career. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Shero’s ability to light up every room and his deep love for the sport.

Born on July 28, 1962, in St. Paul, Shero grew up in a hockey family, being the son of Fred Shero, a Hockey Hall of Fame coach. He was deeply influenced by his father, who was known for innovative strategies as the head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers.

Ray Shero played collegiate hockey at St. Lawrence University from 1980 to 1985, where he served as captain. Although drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in 1982, he never played professionally, opting instead to work as a hockey agent after graduation.

His turn to management began in 1993 with the Ottawa Senators, where he served as assistant GM before moving to the Nashville Predators in 1998. Shero’s career took off when he was appointed GM of the Penguins in 2006. Under his guidance, the youthful team, including stars Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Marc-Andre Fleury, transformed into playoff contenders.

Shero’s bold decisions included a key acquisition of winger Marian Hossa in 2008, which helped propel the Penguins to the Finals that year, followed by a championship win the next season against the Detroit Red Wings.

After parting ways with the Penguins following a disappointing playoff exit in 2014, Shero joined the New Jersey Devils, where he was instrumental in the team’s rebuilding process. He selected future stars Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes as first overall picks in 2017 and 2019, respectively. Shero’s tenure with the Devils included a playoff appearance in 2018.

In recognition of his accomplishments, Shero received the Jim Nill GM of the Year award in 2013-14. He was recognized not just for his eye for talent, but for his contributions to USA Hockey, serving in management roles for Olympic teams in 2010 and 2014.

Most recently, Shero served as a senior adviser to Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin, a position he held since 2021. Guerin described Shero as a key figure who maintained a positive influence on the sport and everyone he encountered.

As the NHL community mourns the loss of Ray Shero, his impact on the game and the players he mentored will be remembered. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation in team management and a commitment to fostering talent.