Remembering Ray Shero – A Legacy of Passion, Vision, and Kindness in Hockey
It’s a tough moment for the hockey world. We’ve lost not just an executive, but a beloved figure whose impact reached far beyond the ice. Ray Shero, a long-time NHL executive and a true ambassador of the sport, has passed away at the age of 62.
If you've followed hockey for even a little while, you've probably heard his name – and not just because he was the son of legendary coach Fred Shero. Ray carved his own path in the game, and he did it with authenticity, class, and a deep love for the sport.
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From his early days after playing at St. Lawrence University, Ray made his mark behind the scenes. He worked his way through the ranks, first as an assistant GM in Ottawa and then in Nashville, where he was instrumental in shaping those franchises during key developmental years. But it was in Pittsburgh where Shero truly rose to prominence. Taking over as general manager in 2006, he built a powerhouse team that reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2008 and lifted the Cup in 2009. That team, led by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, had Shero’s fingerprints all over it. He brought in the right mix of veterans and youth, and his hockey IQ and leadership were undeniable.
He didn’t stop there. From 2015 to 2020, Shero took over as GM of the New Jersey Devils, drafting cornerstone players like Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier. Even after stepping away from the GM role, his passion didn’t waver. For the past few seasons, he had been a senior advisor with the Minnesota Wild, lending his wisdom and experience to help shape yet another franchise.
But beyond the stats and accolades – GM of the Year in 2013, Olympic contributions with Team USA, and a decorated front office career – what really made Ray special was who he was as a person. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said it best: Ray Shero’s smile and personality lit up every room he walked into. He wasn’t just respected – he was loved. Whether you were a scout, a fellow executive, a player, or a fan who happened to bump into him at the rink, Ray made you feel seen. That kind of character is rare.
There’s something incredibly touching about how he continued scouting, staying close to the game, and doing what he loved even in recent years. He lived and breathed hockey – but never let it overshadow how he treated people along the way. Kindness, humility, and joy followed him wherever he went.
Today, we remember Ray Shero not just for his incredible resume, but for his heart. The NHL community, and the broader hockey world, mourns the loss of a man who gave so much and asked for so little in return. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and everyone lucky enough to cross paths with him. Ray, thank you for everything.
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