In a thrilling college women’s hockey match versus rival Minnesota State last January, Abbey Murphy, the captain of the University of Minnesota team, showcased an impressive display of skill. With a remarkable play, Murphy skated from the red line to the opposing team’s zone, executed a deft move by flicking the puck up on her stick, maneuvered past defenders, and set up her teammate Bella Fanale for a goal. The video of this exceptional play quickly gained widespread attention, drawing more eyes to women’s hockey.
Murphy’s exceptional abilities are anticipated to make a significant impact in the PWHL as she is expected to be a top-three pick in the upcoming draft. With her offensive prowess evident at the highest levels, including securing a gold medal with Team USA in the Olympics, Murphy is a dynamic player who can lead a top line effectively.
Beyond her scoring abilities, Murphy’s game is multifaceted. She not only excels in power play situations but also has a knack for drawing penalties that benefit her team, as demonstrated in a dominant performance against Canada where she drew multiple penalties and contributed with assists.
Described as a “cheat code” by U.S. captain Hilary Knight, Murphy’s game has evolved significantly, instilling fear in opponents with her tenacity and skill level. Her upbringing in a tight-knit community in Evergreen Park and the influence of her family, including a father who served in the military and a mother who excelled in college softball, have shaped her resilient and competitive spirit.
Despite her smaller stature on the ice, Murphy’s physicality and hockey IQ set her apart. She has a history of accumulating penalty minutes while also breaking records for goal-scoring in her college career. Murphy’s dedication to studying the game, drawing inspiration from both men’s college and NHL hockey, has enriched her playing style with creativity and uniqueness.
Recognized for her ability to agitate opponents while maintaining a high skill level, Murphy’s nomination for the Patty Kazmaier Award underscores her exceptional talent. As she prepares for the transition to professional hockey in the PWHL, Murphy is eager to embrace the physicality of the league while emphasizing the importance of self-protection as a smaller player.
Looking ahead to the draft, Murphy’s future team can expect a fierce competitor on the ice, who is not only a skilled player but also a supportive teammate off the ice. Despite being perceived by some as a villain due to her on-ice persona, Murphy aims to showcase her true character – a player with a big heart dedicated to her team’s success.
As the PWHL draft approaches, teams will have the opportunity to secure players who could potentially make a significant impact on their rosters. The draft order, starting with the Vancouver Goldeneyes, Seattle Torrent, and PWHL Detroit, outlines the selection sequence for the upcoming draft.
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