I ran into Joe Murphy outside a convenience story in Regina a few summers back. He was trying to change out of flannel pyjama bottoms into shorts without taking the bottoms off - somehow he accomplished it. He came over and asked me for spare change and I recognized him right away. We chatted for a few minutes and he was super friendly and engaging. I’d just bought a Monster energy drink and he asked to try it - I poured a bit into an empty coffee cup he had, but only after assuring him a couple times that there was no alcohol in it. I felt a little bad asking for a picture with him but I knew no one would believe my story of running into him, but he gladly agreed. A couple weeks later I saw him again in front of the big cathedral downtown and he as was going through some kind of “episode” because he was walking around in circles, talking to himself and waving his arms around. Seeing a former NHL player in that kind of state is still one of the saddest things I’ve ever seen
Sadly theres way more great hockey players with this shitty story then ones with great stories. Theres under 1000 players at all times in the nhl think its around 700 something.. not very many people. Think everyone in canada knows at least 1 washed up hockey player . I know even when i was a kid it wasnt cool to be a hockey player and do good in school. It was like if u did good in school u werent dedicated enough to the game. And im only 31 . So in these guys days it was only worse im sure. So u play puck ur whole life and put ur education on the back burner and it fucks u in the end. Thank god for construction
I want to add another thought. I've loved hockey my whole life, and i love sports in general. But i'm at the point where it doesn't make sense at all watching people get serious head trauma. Hockey and Football, Boxing and MMA too... they are absolutely brutal. Every time you cheer for a big hit, you are cheering for someones life potentially being ruined like Joe's in this video. Lots of people would call me soft. But I just can't enjoy watching people sustain brain injuries anymore. Watch the movie Concussion if you want more info...
You're not alone when Gino #29 VC when he died it hurt. Bob Probert guy's should NOT be dying at 50! I don't watch hockey anymore because it's predetermined it's complete fraud. The digital boards did me in, peace ✌️ I'm out.
Fantastic deep dive into Joe Murphy. The NHL should be ashamed, Joe should have been taken out of that game in Detroit and his injury should have been assessed. Maybe if they had caught it early he would have accepted the help he so dearly needed. Fast forward many years and Joe's on the street and refusing help and while you can't FORCE help on someone he is a prime example of brain trauma going undiagnosed and how deep into the fog a person can truly go. I hope Joe can one day find peace and realize he can't and definitly shouldn't go through this alone.
you clearly don't know drug addicts. how can you blame the nhl, its a contact sport and thats what people sign up for, how is it their fault he's a drug addict. you can make excuses all day about how he hit his head and that turned him to drugs but the reality is he probably would have wound up being a crack head no matter what route he took in life.
Thank you for making this. I've watched the Mini doc with Trevor Kidd a couple of times and am impressed that he is so committed to helping Joe, even though he's not a former teammate, but just because he's a former NHL player.
Great video! Crazy to know he was drafted 1st overall and this is how things ended up... nuts man! He made 15million in his career (30mil in todays dollars). His highest year was 1998 (3.8mil with bonuses/todays money is over 7million). Sad story
Both the NHL and the NHLPA should be shame-faced. Respect to Adam Graves and Glenn Healy for doing something for the man. To see him treated like so much human refuse is just soul-crushing. Do better.
excellent video...but what was the "severe head injury"? A concussion or something more serious like a fractured skull...I assume he was taken to the hospital after the hit and went through MRI, catscan, etc.
Murphy himself claims it was a fractured skull, and as his career progressed it became a combination of concussions with the fractured skull, which would lead to cte and other head traumas, it’s hard to really say just what it was because he was never officially diagnosed with any injuries… that’s why I kept saying “severe head injuries”
thanks. Had the concussion protocol been in place back then he would've taken some time off and things probably would have been different for the poor guy. I played college hockey back in the 80's and got 2 concussions 3 days apart and I know they caused permanent damage@@MSZFilms
This is a great documentary. Thank you. It is just as much a tribute to a great man who was really dealt a bad card. I loved watching him as a kid with the Oilers. Feisty, super talented on skills, he was creative with the puck and had a lot of toughness and "whatever it takes to win" grit. I met him as a kid and he was a very thoughtful and considerate guy. He was friendly and took an interest in me as a fellow hockey player - by asking me about my position and how my team was doing. He didn't just sign an autograph, he inspired me. I looked up to him. To Joe, I raise my glass in admiration, respect and sympathy. I sincerely hope he finds peace. I'd help him if I could. Surely, with all the millions the NHL has - the game ruined him and it wasn't his fault. It's a liability thing - he provided much entertainment - was hurt bad and it altered him in way that was unrecoverable. It was the early 90's and things were loose - I don't think brain trauma was even a thing then - it was probably like, "just take a couple Tylenol, put some ice on it and come out to practice tomorrow morning and see how you feel." But after the fact - this long after - it's clearly something thing still needs to be done now. He deserves better. There must be a program out there that can truly help him. Good for Trevor Kidd and the others. Pat on the back for trying. Some bigger names and pocketbooks stepping up here would also be nice to see. The NHL should spend a pile on him getting him care and some dignity back. He'll never fade in my eyes as a star and inspiration. Maybe he just needs to be pulled in against his will to be given a new lease. Go Team Joe.
The industry is heartless. You ever find it weird we're all playing instruments,sports,art, to please higher ups that don't even do the craft themselves. Always thought that was weird. I remember watching a cup final with my dad in like 97 and the camera showed a bunch of dudes in a box dressed in suits,jewelry,everything. Going nuts when the team won. I asked my dad " who are they and why are they so happy". He replied " because those are the owners of the team" I said "but these guys actually playing are the ones that wanted this their whole life", " why would THEY be cheering" My dad replied " money son,money" Even your biggest dreams arent yours. You make good music. Theyll buy it and own you. You make good art,nice,they'll buy it all and own you.
Nice job on this video. I'm a fan of hockey. Joe was before my time, but I know the name, as I live in Michigan and am a Wings fan, I'll watch classic games on UA-cam, there are so many now, so I love to get to see old games. One comment on the NHL. Imo, even if you've only played 1 game in the NHL, I believe that you've become part of a familu, guild or brotherhood, and a small one at that in terms of pro sports leagues go. There appears to be a LOT of money to go around in the NHL, and I think the NHL should have the back of all it's current, and former members. I mean, of course you can't put someone through treatment over and over I suppose, that would indicate someone who may not be ready for sobriety, but that's pretty well the only limitation I can see that would be appropriate.
That injury would have been taken care of immediately at present. It’s just sad that he doesn’t even have $50k sitting around somewhere. I think a fix could be to require all players put 10% of their gross income into an untouched locked account every year. Just straight cash, no investing. Have it open automatically at age 55 or if they need it earlier for medical or housing, it could be used for that. Most players probably wouldn’t need it but for Joe’s situation, it could be a life saver. If he could get proper mental health treatment and an apt, it could help him back up.
Nothing but sad. Just awful. Head injuries, drug abuse - probably started with pain pills given by the team. How many times do we have to read about these stories before things change?
1986 NHL Entry Draft included: 1. Joe Murphy - Detroit Red Wings 2. Jimmy Carson - Los Angeles Kings 6. Vincent Damphousse - Toronto Maple Leafs 9. Brian Leetch - New York Rangers 22. Adam Graves - Detroit Red Wings 81. Ron Tugnutt - Quebec Nordiques Not the strongest draft year so to speak. But what happened to Joe Murphy is indeed a most sad and tragic story that should never have been what it is now.... The NHL and the NHLPA should indeed be ashamed how they turned him down for help.
also included Jimmy Carson 2# who started out GREAT...37 goals his first yr,,,, youngest teenager since Gretzky to score 50 goals (55) his second and then traded to Edmonton for the best player in the league he could NEVER replace..though he still JUST missed out on back to back 50 goal seasons (49) ironically traded for Joe Murphy who found his game in Edmonton while Carson never really was the same guy after playing in Edmonton
Kevin Stevens is another one. And Busher Jackson from old times. Its so sad. this is the shit you dont ever think about as a young kid. you get a little older and see the extremely dark side of sports.
I remember him well especially his Oilers days. It’s sad to see the sacrifices some athletes end making for their sport. I wish him all the best and hope he gets a hand up
It's business, if you think your company cares about you, good luck with that. Dollars and the bottom line, my father died at work, I went to get his car, it was like he never existed, driving his car back home was brutal, his cigar in the ashtray. RIP Dad.
My father worked for the same food brokerage for over 25 yrs. V.P. of sales. The owner retired and left the company to his son. The son liked to "Party" and, in turn, started losing accounts, so WTH, Right Sell the Company. Sold the company to the next biggest brokerage in the area they told my father. " We want to keep, etc," they had him fire about 20 people them lowered the Boom on him he was 51. Live by the Sword..... He never had a job after that that paid him at least even HALF of what he worked his way up to since he started as a lowly salesman stocking shelves in supermarkets...... NEVERMIND Healthcare, which, of course, he desperately needed for himself and my mother. After that, he pushed for me and siblings to get a TRADE. May your Father Rest In Peace. 🙏 RIP Glenn E, Sabourin. Dad.🫂🙏
Very sad story. While quite a few players have died from their brain injuries, Joe seems like he's in a living death with his injury. It leaves a bitter taste watching the adulation for new Rangers rookie Rempe trying to earn a place in the NHL by getting his brains beat in every game. Hopefully he has a better fate.
When I lived in Kenora, I used to see Joe around town all the time, waving his arms around, acting all crazy. But if you take a minute to speak with the guy, it's obvious that he's a really smart, kind fellow. It's not just the apparent CTE. It's the totality of his brain injury, his drug use and his mental health issues have really got him down. He's a really good guy and worth saving. I just wish he would accept the help.
curious why hasn't any of his teamates with teams he played for someone stepped up not let this guy homeless. what a joke the guy in the nhla player said nothing we can do. unreal. when someone asks for help theres always something someone can do. i went and still going thru something. good for trevor kidd
He was probably a terrible person to them at times after his head injuries. But that's speculation. And even if he was , his head trauma wasn't his fault. He couldn't help his behavioral changes. Again , we don't know. I guess I'm trying to think of a cause for everyone abandoning him like this
I saw him in Kenora one summer. I knew it was him right away, this was before the Joe Murphy story with Trevor Kidd. There were already stories and it was known by locals that it was indeed Joe. I didnt approach him, I just watched and left him alone. Growing up as an Oilers fan I couldnt help but feel for him. It was hard to witness one of your Stanley Cup winning heroes living in the streets. Last I heard he moved on and is no longer in Kenora but wherever he is I wish him all the best and hope one day he gets the help he needs.
That's so sad. We as fans don't know what goes on behind the scenes. His career could've been way different if he had been treated like crosby when he got his head injury.
I remember watching this video when it first came out and promised id never watch it again. One of those rare times i start crying and cant stop If theres any updates or anything we could do for Joe after all he did for the sport and us? Please comment. Ill fly to wherever he is and try to help him out Bettman and the businessmen are not the game. We are. The players and the fans
Brain injuries are horrific in the sense that there is no visible wound or impairment so a lot of people back then tended to dismiss them. But the reality is that it changes a persons personality so much that it leads to self destruction, even outside of sports this happens. Roseanne Barr and Gary Busey are 2 actors who are often dismissed as crazy or drug addicts but neither of them behaved the way they do now until they got incredibly traumatic brain injuries in car accidents when they were younger. We still dont know enough about the human brain to properly treat conditions like this so a lot of sports have had to change or face a giant lawsuit from ex players
I get what your saying and totally agree how horrible this is. Poor Murphy, was such a great talent again like many other pro athletes suffered brain damage. The league absolutely shit the bed with him but at the same time in their defense. This is just how it was in this time. Players would play through absolutely anything unless they physically could not go anymore. It is not like today where they have the concussion protocol. Concussions before even the later 2000s were very much an unknown thing when it came to the damage they can do years after they happen. Having said that though the way that asshole in the nhlpa handled that phone call from a man desperate for help to just say to bad and hang up is absolutely disgusting
Looking back to all those head shots Scott Stevens did, that nowadays would be considered ultra-dirty hits. Back then everyone was just in awe of Stevens' strength. It really is a paradigm shift, like you say.
I don't comment often...But, to the people who have negatively commented...Karma beware! As someone who has loved hockey from very early on in life...this is soo tragic 😢...as a fan of any team...you hate the opponent [figuratively, of course]...as a human being...you s/b, if not already, compassionate to Joe's struggles. The ENTIRE NHL s/b embarrassed by this. ALthough I doubt this would ever happen, I would love each and every NHL franchise to play this video pregame, or between periods...even a condensed or edited version to raise awareness...but that will never happen! As stated, Joe has refused help in these latter stages...but it is never too late to continue trying! Kudos to those who have reached out to help or offered to help. What has transpired previously should not affect what happens now. Not only for Joe Murphy, but for anyone who has suffered injury playing in the NHL, something now w/b better than nothing at all! IMO...Prayers to Joe and anyone affected...❤
His story gets a lot of attention because he was at one time at the pinnacle of the sport, so the contrast is startling. There are probably thousands of similar stories but of guys who never won the Stanley Cup or even made it to the NHL. Their stories are no less tragic but just not interesting enough to get our attention.
this situation is strange - can't Joe Murphy get placed into a conservatorship? He has paid millions in taxes, has a clear disability and should have access to pull some type on pension money early. And yes he should have a lawsuit vs the NHL, the team, the team doctors etc... he must have family and friends - someone can help him
I heard somewhere that Murphy was good friends with Bob Probert who was a good and bad influence. Since a lot of Probert's struggles were similar to Murphy's. In many ways both players were not right in the head a lot of time. The league never took head injuries seriously back in the 90's and it's bad that it took the league so long to address the issue.
Not to mention Petr Klima, who had issues with alcohol and may have been an even worse influence; Klima was the player who coaxed Probert into going out to Goose Loonies in Edmonton the night before a crucial game.
This was so freaking upsetting to hear about and I am pissed that he didn’t get the help he needed! This should have been addressed immediately! I would love Dr. Amen to do SPECT imaging on his brain and help him get the support he needs to heal and be well again! So heartbreaking! 💔 I will be praying for Joe Murphy! 🏒💕
Player with a lot of talent. Got shafted. Should've gotten more support. Had the opportunity to get an auto from him in mid 90s and he took time to talk. Decent guy from what i encountered.
This is such a sad story and when I had found out what really happened I never in my life had known how dark the hockey world and culture is it made me sick to my stomach and actually vomit all the stories I hear these hockey players go thru and it sadly starts in junior hockey i use to play the sport I love watching but I would be lying to yall as a rangers fan if I didn’t tell yall how disgusted I have been with the nhl the Blackhawks incident alone makes me think if I should even consider watching a season cuz I lost a lot of respect for the nhl and the hockey culture
I was in Kenora last year a few times after being set up by the cops there and wrongfully incarcerated. It's not a great place to be in his place. I, being a former pro hockey player, was a couple of times, asked if I was Joe Murphy. I was hoping I would ran into him, as I know a lot of the situations he is in. Joe, if you read this, I would love for you to reach out and talk to me. Failing that, I truthfully know after the OPP taking away so much of my life for no reason, situations such as what you are facing, and I sincerely wish you the best. From the heart, man. I might just go back to see if I can find you, as I heard the NHL or other players were also reaching out to you. Hopefully this finds you in a place that's livable and your health is as good as it gets. Love, me
As a former player who’s suffered a bunch of concussions in my younger years, I feel so badly for Joe. Shame on the NHL for doing what they did to this man. His life is ruined because of it. I’m not religious at all but I truly hope Joe finally gets the help he needs one day and he finds peace
Man this is such a hard watch I teared up 3 times watching this and I never watched or heard of this man, but my lord the nhl should be ashamed of themselves, does he have any kind of gofund me, this story legit has hit such a nerve and my lord this poor guy smh
North America and especially Canada become emotional when it comes to hockey. All of our lives are complicated and are full of ups and downs. Blaming the NHLPA is bs. If all you finger pointers really care you would DO SOMETHING FOR HIM !!!! You don't care about him. People giving him change on the street care about him more. Facts
The NHL is a business, company, employer, and like them all you are just a number. If you believe your employer really cares about you or your family, its all smoke and mirrors.
This is right up there with the Beech incident, as funny as U-Tree is, he was very candid and exactly right when he said the NHL has a culture problem. Two traumatic experiences on two fine young men that NHL basically said oops we made a boo boo!
Joe seems to be a really good guy,but because of his injuries in the NHL,he got on the wrong track.I hope,he will get some help.Yes,I remember Joe Murphy from the NHL and he was good.I wish you well,Joe !!!
They should have 3 or 4 living centers for former athletes. Old folks homes for retired players kinda thing. For 20 million $ they could have 12-15 places to house like 300 guys , across us and Canada. Yea 20$ sounds alot but they could probably get tax exempt status on the properties and its not that much for the goodwill it shows
@@kenw2225 the currency is worthless. The NHL doesn't care about Winnipeg and soon it won't care about Edmonton or Calgary. Good luck finding a player who will even play in Canada. Joe is ahead of his time. Soon we'll all be staggering around on the street
He left his kid... broke contact? Can't give a couch to someone like that. Not because I think he's a terrible person. But if his brain is so bad off he won't see his child, he's too unstable to have in your home.
How is the NHL going to help Joe Murphy if he won't accept help from anyone? This is a problem you just can't fix. If former teammates can't even help him who can?
I met Adam Graves when he was 19-20, even then you could tell he was a pretty special hockey player and a big personality in the changing room. I'm not even remotely surprised he's stepped into help, he jumped into the lake to save me in a skiing accident and made us pretty terrible English hockey players feel welcome. A credit to Canada and the hockey world.
On $1100 bucks a month NHL pension, he could move to the Philippines, and live like a king for the rest of his life, like retired US military there. Anyway, wishin him the best.
I feel terrible for him. This is a tragedy of the highest level. However, there are some pretty damning statements made in this video - if these are 100% accurate, why haven’t steps been taken to hold those responsible accountable? For example - “ he was cleared to return to play in second period”: following a “ fractured skull” . Where are the medical documents to back this claim? If true, why hasn’t any of those assisting him now start legal proceedings against the club , it’s medical staff & the league?
We all need family but most of all we need God through the good and the bad times this is very difficult to watch I hope he gets well soon may God help you joe please
Mental illness...drug/alcohol addiction intertwined with homelessness is basically hell on earth...Ive experienced this myself. The one thing that we cannot lose sight of is the fact that no matter the person's past fame/celebrity...its still just a human dealing with the demons that addiction inevitably makes one endure. That being said...trying to help someone going through this is an absolute nightmare...especially if its a family member and/or spouse. Only those who have gone through this with a loved will understand. Yes...the NHL should have handled the situation differently...but we cannot just condemn them without knowing more....in regards to what has already happened with Joe's medical history. However...I believe western societies in general handle mental illness and addiction in just about the worst way possible...and that goes for all health care. A government controlled national health care system like in Canada...as well as a privatized system like the one in the United States both put profit above everything else...they make it political...they make it completely chaotic on purpose simply to capitalize on profits and the ability to control the masses in multiple ways...think of the worst possible scenarios...like NAZI concentration camp medical testing on a scale we cannot fathom. Evil people are in control right now...in both Canada and the United States...and unfortunately are health care isn't going to get better anytime soon.
Yes I remember him playing great hockey player. I watch that documentary on him Trevor Kidd was looking for him. Trevor found him in Kenora Ontario , living on the streets truly sad. I’m hurt as well I was a tradesman smashed my head 2 times working. The run around by my union Wcb my doctor 2 lawyers destroyed me totally.
If the Cronin-Call is true it's horrible & he should be dismissed. As far as the missed diagnosis of the head injury you should talk to other former players about how nobody is hurt unless it's a bloody mess. They all played thru too much. He had his concussions before the world knew what CTE & post concussion sydrome is. Yes the NHL & NHLPA could/should do more. You super bash the NHL (they're deserving) but you don't blame the NHLPA for any of it & those are his brothers in arms & you don't blame the culture of playing "through it" which is big part of it too. Mental illness (from PCS or otherwise) is terrible. Murphy needs to accept the help or they need to force him.
I ran into Joe Murphy outside a convenience story in Regina a few summers back. He was trying to change out of flannel pyjama bottoms into shorts without taking the bottoms off - somehow he accomplished it. He came over and asked me for spare change and I recognized him right away. We chatted for a few minutes and he was super friendly and engaging. I’d just bought a Monster energy drink and he asked to try it - I poured a bit into an empty coffee cup he had, but only after assuring him a couple times that there was no alcohol in it. I felt a little bad asking for a picture with him but I knew no one would believe my story of running into him, but he gladly agreed.
A couple weeks later I saw him again in front of the big cathedral downtown and he as was going through some kind of “episode” because he was walking around in circles, talking to himself and waving his arms around. Seeing a former NHL player in that kind of state is still one of the saddest things I’ve ever seen
Sadly theres way more great hockey players with this shitty story then ones with great stories. Theres under 1000 players at all times in the nhl think its around 700 something.. not very many people. Think everyone in canada knows at least 1 washed up hockey player . I know even when i was a kid it wasnt cool to be a hockey player and do good in school. It was like if u did good in school u werent dedicated enough to the game. And im only 31 . So in these guys days it was only worse im sure. So u play puck ur whole life and put ur education on the back burner and it fucks u in the end. Thank god for construction
Seeing anyone in that state is depressing not just a former NHL player
😂Seriously if I don’t get my act together I could be in a similar situation
I want to add another thought. I've loved hockey my whole life, and i love sports in general. But i'm at the point where it doesn't make sense at all watching people get serious head trauma. Hockey and Football, Boxing and MMA too... they are absolutely brutal. Every time you cheer for a big hit, you are cheering for someones life potentially being ruined like Joe's in this video. Lots of people would call me soft. But I just can't enjoy watching people sustain brain injuries anymore. Watch the movie Concussion if you want more info...
You're not alone when Gino #29 VC when he died it hurt. Bob Probert guy's should NOT be dying at 50! I don't watch hockey anymore because it's predetermined it's complete fraud. The digital boards did me in, peace ✌️ I'm out.
Fantastic deep dive into Joe Murphy. The NHL should be ashamed, Joe should have been taken out of that game in Detroit and his injury should have been assessed. Maybe if they had caught it early he would have accepted the help he so dearly needed.
Fast forward many years and Joe's on the street and refusing help and while you can't FORCE help on someone he is a prime example of brain trauma going undiagnosed and how deep into the fog a person can truly go. I hope Joe can one day find peace and realize he can't and definitly shouldn't go through this alone.
@renc3920 where were you to take Joe out of that game? It's all quite easy in hindsight. SHit happens.
@@steve8803that is just an excuse for not wanting the responsibility of the situation that unfolded under your watch
There not the only ones hiding the bad it’s involved in everything. It’s disgusting 🤮 what they do to people that are hurting big time.
you clearly don't know drug addicts. how can you blame the nhl, its a contact sport and thats what people sign up for, how is it their fault he's a drug addict. you can make excuses all day about how he hit his head and that turned him to drugs but the reality is he probably would have wound up being a crack head no matter what route he took in life.
Thank you for making this. I've watched the Mini doc with Trevor Kidd a couple of times and am impressed that he is so committed to helping Joe, even though he's not a former teammate, but just because he's a former NHL player.
Big salute to Trevor Kidd💯
What the fuck… that’s all I could say while watching this. This is heartbreaking.
The league should be looking after past, present and future players with these issues. Mortal Sin!!! Shame on the NHL,and his past teams!
and make pay the dude who did this to him
if you talking about the Shawn Burr hit, Burr died in 2013@@mcfly7
@@mcfly7What guy?
what a stupid thing to say. guys addicted to crack because he partied like a rockstar for 15 years in the nhl.
Great video! Crazy to know he was drafted 1st overall and this is how things ended up... nuts man! He made 15million in his career (30mil in todays dollars). His highest year was 1998 (3.8mil with bonuses/todays money is over 7million). Sad story
Both the NHL and the NHLPA should be shame-faced. Respect to Adam Graves and Glenn Healy for doing something for the man. To see him treated like so much human refuse is just soul-crushing. Do better.
excellent video...but what was the "severe head injury"? A concussion or something more serious like a fractured skull...I assume he was taken to the hospital after the hit and went through MRI, catscan, etc.
Murphy himself claims it was a fractured skull, and as his career progressed it became a combination of concussions with the fractured skull, which would lead to cte and other head traumas, it’s hard to really say just what it was because he was never officially diagnosed with any injuries… that’s why I kept saying “severe head injuries”
thanks. Had the concussion protocol been in place back then he would've taken some time off and things probably would have been different for the poor guy. I played college hockey back in the 80's and got 2 concussions 3 days apart and I know they caused permanent damage@@MSZFilms
This is a great documentary. Thank you. It is just as much a tribute to a great man who was really dealt a bad card. I loved watching him as a kid with the Oilers. Feisty, super talented on skills, he was creative with the puck and had a lot of toughness and "whatever it takes to win" grit. I met him as a kid and he was a very thoughtful and considerate guy. He was friendly and took an interest in me as a fellow hockey player - by asking me about my position and how my team was doing. He didn't just sign an autograph, he inspired me. I looked up to him. To Joe, I raise my glass in admiration, respect and sympathy. I sincerely hope he finds peace. I'd help him if I could. Surely, with all the millions the NHL has - the game ruined him and it wasn't his fault. It's a liability thing - he provided much entertainment - was hurt bad and it altered him in way that was unrecoverable. It was the early 90's and things were loose - I don't think brain trauma was even a thing then - it was probably like, "just take a couple Tylenol, put some ice on it and come out to practice tomorrow morning and see how you feel." But after the fact - this long after - it's clearly something thing still needs to be done now. He deserves better. There must be a program out there that can truly help him. Good for Trevor Kidd and the others. Pat on the back for trying. Some bigger names and pocketbooks stepping up here would also be nice to see. The NHL should spend a pile on him getting him care and some dignity back. He'll never fade in my eyes as a star and inspiration. Maybe he just needs to be pulled in against his will to be given a new lease. Go Team Joe.
Awesome Work, I Pray for this man everyday
Can’t imagine why the NHL or an ex team hasn’t stepped up to get this guy right. I remember watching him as an absolute talent.
I think a few people helped him get into rehab but he kept skipping out
The industry is heartless. You ever find it weird we're all playing instruments,sports,art, to please higher ups that don't even do the craft themselves. Always thought that was weird. I remember watching a cup final with my dad in like 97 and the camera showed a bunch of dudes in a box dressed in suits,jewelry,everything. Going nuts when the team won. I asked my dad " who are they and why are they so happy". He replied " because those are the owners of the team"
I said "but these guys actually playing are the ones that wanted this their whole life", " why would THEY be cheering"
My dad replied " money son,money"
Even your biggest dreams arent yours. You make good music. Theyll buy it and own you. You make good art,nice,they'll buy it all and own you.
Nice job on this video. I'm a fan of hockey. Joe was before my time, but I know the name, as I live in Michigan and am a Wings fan, I'll watch classic games on UA-cam, there are so many now, so I love to get to see old games. One comment on the NHL. Imo, even if you've only played 1 game in the NHL, I believe that you've become part of a familu, guild or brotherhood, and a small one at that in terms of pro sports leagues go. There appears to be a LOT of money to go around in the NHL, and I think the NHL should have the back of all it's current, and former members. I mean, of course you can't put someone through treatment over and over I suppose, that would indicate someone who may not be ready for sobriety, but that's pretty well the only limitation I can see that would be appropriate.
That injury would have been taken care of immediately at present. It’s just sad that he doesn’t even have $50k sitting around somewhere. I think a fix could be to require all players put 10% of their gross income into an untouched locked account every year. Just straight cash, no investing. Have it open automatically at age 55 or if they need it earlier for medical or housing, it could be used for that. Most players probably wouldn’t need it but for Joe’s situation, it could be a life saver. If he could get proper mental health treatment and an apt, it could help him back up.
Nothing but sad. Just awful. Head injuries, drug abuse - probably started with pain pills given by the team. How many times do we have to read about these stories before things change?
1986 NHL Entry Draft included:
1. Joe Murphy - Detroit Red Wings
2. Jimmy Carson - Los Angeles Kings
6. Vincent Damphousse - Toronto Maple Leafs
9. Brian Leetch - New York Rangers
22. Adam Graves - Detroit Red Wings
81. Ron Tugnutt - Quebec Nordiques
Not the strongest draft year so to speak. But what happened to Joe Murphy is indeed a most sad and tragic story that should never have been what it is now....
The NHL and the NHLPA should indeed be ashamed how they turned him down for help.
also included Jimmy Carson 2# who started out GREAT...37 goals his first yr,,,, youngest teenager since Gretzky to score 50 goals (55) his second and then traded to Edmonton for the best player in the league he could NEVER replace..though he still JUST missed out on back to back 50 goal seasons (49) ironically traded for Joe Murphy who found his game in Edmonton while Carson never really was the same guy after playing in Edmonton
@@reesepacker7983 Yeah he had his moment. But in the long run did not live up to what the others did.
@@WarioSaysSo yeah i agree
@@reesepacker7983 Amen !!!
I remember talking to him after a Flames Hawks game at Chelis Chili bar. He was nice and engaging. Very sad.
Even if there wasn’t a thumbnail of him, i automatically knew this was about Joe Murphy! I’ve seen this news of him years ago on another channel!
Kevin Stevens is another one. And Busher Jackson from old times. Its so sad. this is the shit you dont ever think about as a young kid. you get a little older and see the extremely dark side of sports.
This is a great video. Thank you for sharing this.
I remember him well especially his Oilers days. It’s sad to see the sacrifices some athletes end making for their sport. I wish him all the best and hope he gets a hand up
Great video!
Someone should show Matt Rempe this video. Didn't something similar to this happen to Bob Probert?
Not really.
It's business, if you think your company cares about you, good luck with that. Dollars and the bottom line, my father died at work, I went to get his car, it was like he never existed, driving his car back home was brutal, his cigar in the ashtray. RIP Dad.
Sorry for your loss. My condolences.
My father worked for the same food brokerage for over 25 yrs. V.P. of sales. The owner retired and left the company to his son. The son liked to "Party" and, in turn, started losing accounts, so WTH, Right Sell the Company. Sold the company to the next biggest brokerage in the area they told my father. " We want to keep, etc," they had him fire about 20 people them lowered the Boom on him he was 51. Live by the Sword..... He never had a job after that that paid him at least even HALF of what he worked his way up to since he started as a lowly salesman stocking shelves in supermarkets...... NEVERMIND Healthcare, which, of course, he desperately needed for himself and my mother. After that, he pushed for me and siblings to get a TRADE.
May your Father Rest In Peace. 🙏
RIP Glenn E, Sabourin. Dad.🫂🙏
This is good content. Thank you for telling this story.
I have Mr Murphy's rookie card. I will cherish even more now, because of your video. Thank you
Very sad story. While quite a few players have died from their brain injuries, Joe seems like he's in a living death with his injury. It leaves a bitter taste watching the adulation for new Rangers rookie Rempe trying to earn a place in the NHL by getting his brains beat in every game. Hopefully he has a better fate.
When I lived in Kenora, I used to see Joe around town all the time, waving his arms around, acting all crazy. But if you take a minute to speak with the guy, it's obvious that he's a really smart, kind fellow. It's not just the apparent CTE. It's the totality of his brain injury, his drug use and his mental health issues have really got him down. He's a really good guy and worth saving. I just wish he would accept the help.
curious why hasn't any of his teamates with teams he played for someone stepped up not let this guy homeless. what a joke the guy in the nhla player said nothing we can do. unreal. when someone asks for help theres always something someone can do. i went and still going thru something. good for trevor kidd
And yet there all millionaires but could care less about him.
He was probably a terrible person to them at times after his head injuries. But that's speculation. And even if he was , his head trauma wasn't his fault. He couldn't help his behavioral changes. Again , we don't know. I guess I'm trying to think of a cause for everyone abandoning him like this
Murphy had an awesome shot
Sad… Thanks for sharing
Really solid player on the Blackhawks. He was on a line with Bernie Nichols and Murray Craven
I saw him in Kenora one summer. I knew it was him right away, this was before the Joe Murphy story with Trevor Kidd. There were already stories and it was known by locals that it was indeed Joe. I didnt approach him, I just watched and left him alone. Growing up as an Oilers fan I couldnt help but feel for him. It was hard to witness one of your Stanley Cup winning heroes living in the streets. Last I heard he moved on and is no longer in Kenora but wherever he is I wish him all the best and hope one day he gets the help he needs.
This sucks. He was a stud. They should help him
That's so sad. We as fans don't know what goes on behind the scenes. His career could've been way different if he had been treated like crosby when he got his head injury.
Lindros, lots of guys fit that scenario. Crosby was protected like no other
It's so incredibly heartbreaking to see this man suffer like this. Keeping him in thought and prayer.
I live in Winnipeg and this makes me sick Nhl should be ashamed what a disgrace!!
I agree💯 I absolutely love the name and pic you got too 💯
The NHL should also be ashamed of putting a team back in Winnipeg
I remember watching this video when it first came out and promised id never watch it again. One of those rare times i start crying and cant stop
If theres any updates or anything we could do for Joe after all he did for the sport and us? Please comment. Ill fly to wherever he is and try to help him out
Bettman and the businessmen are not the game. We are. The players and the fans
Don’t NHL players get a life long pension after playing a minimum of 500 games? Where is his pension money going?
This was established in 2012, 25k per year, you need to have played 10 seasons.
@faunbudweis how many games is required to play to qualify for a season?
@@Brian-dh9lp = 82 games; I believe it's pro-rated if you havent played a full season; pretty steep if you ask me
you get a pension even if you played 1 game
@alexlatta7555 Not a full pension
Apparently he was living on the streets in Regina Saskatchewan but it’s a sad story man hope he can find the help🙏
Would like to know what the NHLPA has to say about this situation?
Brain injuries are horrific in the sense that there is no visible wound or impairment so a lot of people back then tended to dismiss them.
But the reality is that it changes a persons personality so much that it leads to self destruction, even outside of sports this happens. Roseanne Barr and Gary Busey are 2 actors who are often dismissed as crazy or drug addicts but neither of them behaved the way they do now until they got incredibly traumatic brain injuries in car accidents when they were younger.
We still dont know enough about the human brain to properly treat conditions like this so a lot of sports have had to change or face a giant lawsuit from ex players
I get what your saying and totally agree how horrible this is. Poor Murphy, was such a great talent again like many other pro athletes suffered brain damage. The league absolutely shit the bed with him but at the same time in their defense. This is just how it was in this time. Players would play through absolutely anything unless they physically could not go anymore. It is not like today where they have the concussion protocol. Concussions before even the later 2000s were very much an unknown thing when it came to the damage they can do years after they happen. Having said that though the way that asshole in the nhlpa handled that phone call from a man desperate for help to just say to bad and hang up is absolutely disgusting
Looking back to all those head shots Scott Stevens did, that nowadays would be considered ultra-dirty hits. Back then everyone was just in awe of Stevens' strength. It really is a paradigm shift, like you say.
@@gene6867 yep 100% Steven's would be out of the league pretty fast with the way he played.
That was really well made. 👍❤️
What a beautiful hockey player 😮. Mental illness can happen to anyone, be kind to each other
I don't comment often...But, to the people who have negatively commented...Karma beware! As someone who has loved hockey from very early on in life...this is soo tragic 😢...as a fan of any team...you hate the opponent [figuratively, of course]...as a human being...you s/b, if not already, compassionate to Joe's struggles. The ENTIRE NHL s/b embarrassed by this. ALthough I doubt this would ever happen, I would love each and every NHL franchise to play this video pregame, or between periods...even a condensed or edited version to raise awareness...but that will never happen! As stated, Joe has refused help in these latter stages...but it is never too late to continue trying! Kudos to those who have reached out to help or offered to help. What has transpired previously should not affect what happens now. Not only for Joe Murphy, but for anyone who has suffered injury playing in the NHL, something now w/b better than nothing at all! IMO...Prayers to Joe and anyone affected...❤
Excellent job on this. Such a sad story. Hopefully Joe can get the help he needs.
His story gets a lot of attention because he was at one time at the pinnacle of the sport, so the contrast is startling. There are probably thousands of similar stories but of guys who never won the Stanley Cup or even made it to the NHL. Their stories are no less tragic but just not interesting enough to get our attention.
this situation is strange - can't Joe Murphy get placed into a conservatorship? He has paid millions in taxes, has a clear disability and should have access to pull some type on pension money early. And yes he should have a lawsuit vs the NHL, the team, the team doctors etc... he must have family and friends - someone can help him
That kid line had a special run. I hope you conquer your demons Joe. Gl
If he has advanced CTE you can't really expect him to seek help or an easy solution. It's a horrible illness that progressively worsens.
He almost certainly does. Everything in his behavior during those interviews points to that.
@piscesgroovesupreme I agree. Tragic/terrifying disease.
Did the league let him down? It seems like the NHLPA has reached out to help Murphy a number of times. Each time he ends up back on the streets.
He has brain damage from playing Hockey. The NHL owes this man. The NHL needs to support him.
I heard somewhere that Murphy was good friends with Bob Probert who was a good and bad influence. Since a lot of Probert's struggles were similar to Murphy's. In many ways both players were not right in the head a lot of time. The league never took head injuries seriously back in the 90's and it's bad that it took the league so long to address the issue.
Not to mention Petr Klima, who had issues with alcohol and may have been an even worse influence; Klima was the player who coaxed Probert into going out to Goose Loonies in Edmonton the night before a crucial game.
Now i feel bad for all those times i injured him in nhl96 when he was on the hawks, but i injured every guy who replaced him too😅
Heart breaking. I remember when he was drafted by the Wings.
I wonder if Steve Yzerman tried to help him. Mental Illness is terrible.
Murphy was a bum then and now
@@chevy4x466 I think you made it pretty clear who the bum is.
@@faunbudweis yup, its the guy in the street on drugs. spoiled athlete, couldnt hold a real job
@@chevy4x466 you must be maga
@@KittenSunshineForever u nailed it
This was so freaking upsetting to hear about and I am pissed that he didn’t get the help he needed! This should have been addressed immediately! I would love Dr. Amen to do SPECT imaging on his brain and help him get the support he needs to heal and be well again! So heartbreaking! 💔 I will be praying for Joe Murphy! 🏒💕
Player with a lot of talent. Got shafted. Should've gotten more support. Had the opportunity to get an auto from him in mid 90s and he took time to talk. Decent guy from what i encountered.
Great video man good job
This is such a sad story and when I had found out what really happened I never in my life had known how dark the hockey world and culture is it made me sick to my stomach and actually vomit all the stories I hear these hockey players go thru and it sadly starts in junior hockey i use to play the sport I love watching but I would be lying to yall as a rangers fan if I didn’t tell yall how disgusted I have been with the nhl the Blackhawks incident alone makes me think if I should even consider watching a season cuz I lost a lot of respect for the nhl and the hockey culture
So sad. That hit was brutal. I hope he gets better, finds inner peace. 🙏
Great video bro.
I was in Kenora last year a few times after being set up by the cops there and wrongfully incarcerated. It's not a great place to be in his place. I, being a former pro hockey player, was a couple of times, asked if I was Joe Murphy. I was hoping I would ran into him, as I know a lot of the situations he is in. Joe, if you read this, I would love for you to reach out and talk to me. Failing that, I truthfully know after the OPP taking away so much of my life for no reason, situations such as what you are facing, and I sincerely wish you the best. From the heart, man. I might just go back to see if I can find you, as I heard the NHL or other players were also reaching out to you. Hopefully this finds you in a place that's livable and your health is as good as it gets. Love, me
Who are you?? Do you need help?
Awesome content. Very sad. H9w can you help someone who doesn’t want help though.
As a former player who’s suffered a bunch of concussions in my younger years, I feel so badly for Joe. Shame on the NHL for doing what they did to this man. His life is ruined because of it. I’m not religious at all but I truly hope Joe finally gets the help he needs one day and he finds peace
Kenora Sucks. It's a terrible place to end up in.
Man this is such a hard watch I teared up 3 times watching this and I never watched or heard of this man, but my lord the nhl should be ashamed of themselves, does he have any kind of gofund me, this story legit has hit such a nerve and my lord this poor guy smh
He was the rare Junior team super star.
👏👏👏👏👏
North America and especially Canada become emotional when it comes to hockey. All of our lives are complicated and are full of ups and downs. Blaming the NHLPA is bs. If all you finger pointers really care you would DO SOMETHING FOR HIM !!!! You don't care about him. People giving him change on the street care about him more. Facts
The NHL is a business, company, employer, and like them all you are just a number. If you believe your employer really cares about you or your family, its all smoke and mirrors.
Nice job on the video
That broke my heart
Awesome Vid
nhl is trash
obviously the NHL should had build a robotbody for him once the injury happened.
Roboforward would be his name after that.
I compared his stats to Petr Nedved ‘s and although no King Stanley its still more impressive than Murphy’s.
Head injuries, avoiding healthcare, drugs, and alcohol destroy lives.
This is right up there with the Beech incident, as funny as U-Tree is, he was very candid and exactly right when he said the NHL has a culture problem. Two traumatic experiences on two fine young men that NHL basically said oops we made a boo boo!
Then the gave Chicago Bedard 😂… I’m not actually laughing… It’s brutal!
Theoren Fleury is another one let down by the people he played with and for
Joe seems to be a really good guy,but because of his injuries in the NHL,he got on the wrong track.I hope,he will get some help.Yes,I remember Joe Murphy from the NHL and he was good.I wish you well,Joe !!!
You would think maybe the nhl players association would have some type of program set up for retired players..very sad
Its called the nhl pension. Are you really that dumb?
They should have 3 or 4 living centers for former athletes. Old folks homes for retired players kinda thing. For 20 million $ they could have 12-15 places to house like 300 guys , across us and Canada. Yea 20$ sounds alot but they could probably get tax exempt status on the properties and its not that much for the goodwill it shows
@@kenw2225 the currency is worthless. The NHL doesn't care about Winnipeg and soon it won't care about Edmonton or Calgary. Good luck finding a player who will even play in Canada. Joe is ahead of his time. Soon we'll all be staggering around on the street
Hang on Joe...heart breaking 😢
Shit I got a couch for that man
Right?
He left his kid... broke contact? Can't give a couch to someone like that. Not because I think he's a terrible person. But if his brain is so bad off he won't see his child, he's too unstable to have in your home.
He was part of the coke cups in Edmonton left that organization with a bad habit one of few
How is the NHL going to help Joe Murphy if he won't accept help from anyone? This is a problem you just can't fix. If former teammates can't even help him who can?
I met Adam Graves when he was 19-20, even then you could tell he was a pretty special hockey player and a big personality in the changing room. I'm not even remotely surprised he's stepped into help, he jumped into the lake to save me in a skiing accident and made us pretty terrible English hockey players feel welcome. A credit to Canada and the hockey world.
To Win Stanley Cup dont means nothing!
Find Joe and tell that man he can stay with me I’m so dead ass, I’ll give that man a solid place to stay with a decent life again
Your picture profile says different
@@supremeleaderarmy9164 that makes 0 sense pal
@@brandonzuzak6748
The person in your profile pick looks a little unstable
On $1100 bucks a month NHL pension, he could move to the Philippines, and live like a king for the rest of his life, like retired US military there. Anyway, wishin him the best.
I feel terrible for him. This is a tragedy of the highest level. However, there are some pretty damning statements made in this video - if these are 100% accurate, why haven’t steps been taken to hold those responsible accountable? For example - “ he was cleared to return to play in second period”: following a “ fractured skull” . Where are the medical documents to back this claim? If true, why hasn’t any of those assisting him now start legal proceedings against the club , it’s medical staff & the league?
Heartbreaking
We all need family but most of all we need God through the good and the bad times this is very difficult to watch I hope he gets well soon may God help you joe please
Mental illness...drug/alcohol addiction intertwined with homelessness is basically hell on earth...Ive experienced this myself. The one thing that we cannot lose sight of is the fact that no matter the person's past fame/celebrity...its still just a human dealing with the demons that addiction inevitably makes one endure.
That being said...trying to help someone going through this is an absolute nightmare...especially if its a family member and/or spouse.
Only those who have gone through this with a loved will understand. Yes...the NHL should have handled the situation differently...but we cannot just condemn them without knowing more....in regards to what has already happened with Joe's medical history.
However...I believe western societies in general handle mental illness and addiction in just about the worst way possible...and that goes for all health care. A government controlled national health care system like in Canada...as well as a privatized system like the one in the United States both put profit above everything else...they make it political...they make it completely chaotic on purpose simply to capitalize on profits and the ability to control the masses in multiple ways...think of the worst possible scenarios...like NAZI concentration camp medical testing on a scale we cannot fathom. Evil people are in control right now...in both Canada and the United States...and unfortunately are health care isn't going to get better anytime soon.
Yes I remember him playing great hockey player. I watch that documentary on him Trevor Kidd was looking for him. Trevor found him in Kenora Ontario , living on the streets truly sad. I’m hurt as well I was a tradesman smashed my head 2 times working. The run around by my union Wcb my doctor 2 lawyers destroyed me totally.
BA’s getting the same rate as a journeyman and they do nothing for you no matter what it is.
Turning your back on a fallen hero.
Shame on you NHL.
Check out minute 23
If the Cronin-Call is true it's horrible & he should be dismissed. As far as the missed diagnosis of the head injury you should talk to other former players about how nobody is hurt unless it's a bloody mess. They all played thru too much. He had his concussions before the world knew what CTE & post concussion sydrome is. Yes the NHL & NHLPA could/should do more. You super bash the NHL (they're deserving) but you don't blame the NHLPA for any of it & those are his brothers in arms & you don't blame the culture of playing "through it" which is big part of it too. Mental illness (from PCS or otherwise) is terrible. Murphy needs to accept the help or they need to force him.