The hockey world is in mourning today as it was confirmed that Ray Shero, former NHL general manager and revered figure in the hockey community, passed away at the age of 62. The news, breaking this afternoon, was both sudden and heartbreaking for fans and colleagues alike. Shero’s impact on the National Hockey League spans over three decades, with contributions that shaped teams, organizations, and the careers of countless individuals.
From his beginnings in hockey as the son of legendary coach Fred Shero to his successful front-office work with the Pittsburgh Penguins, New Jersey Devils, and beyond, Ray Shero’s influence on the sport is immeasurable. His passing leaves a void in the NHL, but his legacy lives on through his work, the teams he helped shape, and the individuals he mentored.
Early Life and Career: A Legacy of Hockey
Ray Shero was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1962, the son of Fred Shero, a legendary coach in the NHL best known for his time with the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1970s. Fred Shero was a key architect of the Flyers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 1974 and 1975. Growing up in this environment, Ray was immersed in the game from an early age. His father’s influence shaped his future, and he would eventually follow in Fred’s footsteps into the world of hockey.
Ray played as a center for St. Lawrence University from 1980 to 1985, demonstrating his talent and passion for the game. However, despite being drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the 11th round of the 1982 NHL Draft, Ray’s playing career didn’t take off. Instead, he pivoted to become a sports agent, using his deep knowledge of the game to guide others. His time as an agent would serve him well in his future roles, as it gave him valuable insight into both the business and personal side of the sport.
Rise Through the Ranks: From Assistant GM to Stanley Cup Champion
Ray Shero’s true impact on the NHL came when he transitioned from agent to front-office executive. In 1993, he joined the Ottawa Senators as an assistant general manager under Randy Sexton. Ottawa, then a fledgling franchise in its second season, offered Shero a chance to build and shape an organization from the ground up. After five years in Ottawa, Shero moved to another expansion team, the Nashville Predators, where he worked under David Poile. This experience deepened his understanding of team-building, identity creation, and organizational management.
In 2006, after 13 years in assistant roles, Shero was hired by the Pittsburgh Penguins to replace long-time general manager Craig Patrick. It was here that Shero truly made his mark as a general manager. His decisions in Pittsburgh led to a series of key acquisitions, including a young Sidney Crosby, whose leadership would become the cornerstone of the franchise’s success.
Shero’s vision for the Penguins quickly paid off. He surrounded Crosby with strong players like Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, and Marc-Andre Fleury. He made bold moves, acquiring players like Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis, the latter becoming one of Crosby’s trusted line partners. Shero’s decision to fire coach Michel Therrien and replace him with Dan Bylsma proved instrumental in Pittsburgh’s success. Under Bylsma’s guidance, the Penguins secured their first Stanley Cup since 1992 in 2009, cementing Shero’s reputation as a skilled and effective general manager.
While many point to Crosby and Malkin as the key to Pittsburgh’s success, it would be a mistake to overlook Shero’s role in building the team. His leadership, savvy moves, and ability to identify talent were critical in transforming the Penguins into a perennial contender.
Shero’s tenure in Pittsburgh ended in 2014, but his fingerprints were all over the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017, ensuring his legacy endured even after his departure.
Impact on Others: The Shero Tree
Ray Shero wasn’t just known for his success in constructing championship teams; he also took great pride in mentoring others in the hockey world. Several individuals who worked under Shero went on to have successful careers in management. Names like Bill Guerin, Chuck Fletcher, Jason Botterill, Mike Yeo, and Tom Fitzgerald—current GM of the New Jersey Devils—are all part of the so-called “Shero management tree”. These individuals credit Shero with teaching them valuable lessons about leadership, team building, and navigating the pressures of front-office life.
Shero also left his mark on USA Hockey, helping to foster the growth of hockey in the United States and contributing to the development of the next generation of players and executives.
A New Chapter with the New Jersey Devils
In May of 2015, Ray Shero was named the general manager of the New Jersey Devils, succeeding the legendary Lou Lamoriello. This was no easy task, as Lamoriello had built the Devils into a perennial contender during his tenure. Shero took on the difficult challenge of rebuilding the team, focusing on creating a new identity for the organization. He was known for advocating a “fast, attacking, and supportive” style of play.
Shero’s major trade during his time with the Devils was one that sent shockwaves through the league. He traded defenseman Adam Larsson to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for forward Taylor Hall, a move that proved to be a masterstroke. Hall went on to have an MVP-caliber season in 2017-18, leading the Devils to their first playoff appearance since 2012. It was a moment of triumph for both Hall and Shero, and it was one of the defining moments of Shero’s career.
Shero also made two critical decisions that will have lasting impacts on the Devils. In 2017, he selected Nico Hischier with the first overall pick, a decision that, in hindsight, proved to be a no-brainer, as Hischier has developed into one of the franchise’s key players. Additionally, Shero took a chance on Jesper Bratt, a sixth-round pick in 2016 who has blossomed into one of the team’s top scoring threats.
Despite the success, Shero’s time in New Jersey ended in 2020, when he was let go after a disappointing 2019-2020 season. However, his decisions in the years prior continue to benefit the franchise.
Final Years and Legacy
After his time in New Jersey, Shero took on a role as a senior advisor with the Minnesota Wild, working under former colleague Bill Guerin. Shero’s expertise and knowledge continued to be valued by those around him, and he remained a respected voice in the NHL.
Ray Shero’s contributions to the game of hockey extend far beyond the championships and trades that defined his career. His legacy lives on through the many individuals he mentored, the teams he helped build, and the players whose careers he helped shape.
Tributes from across the hockey world have poured in since news of Shero’s passing. Former colleagues, players, and fans alike have expressed their sorrow and shared memories of the man who gave so much to the game. Gary Bettman, Sidney Crosby, P.K. Subban, Bill Guerin, and John Hynes are just a few of the voices who have spoken to Shero’s impact on the NHL.
Ray Shero’s legacy will endure in the stories told by those who worked with him, the teams he built, and the impact he had on the sport of hockey. He will be remembered as a giant in the game, a mentor to many, and a leader who helped shape the NHL as we know it today.
Our condolences go out to the Shero family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ray Shero. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
