Pittsburgh Review

Ray Shero, former General Manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 62. Shero's tenure with the Penguins was marked by significant accomplishments, including leading the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2009 with a talented young roster.

Upon joining the Penguins in 2006, Shero made a lasting first impression by reaching out to the parents of Sidney Crosby, stating, “I’m going to take care of your son, and hopefully it will go well.” Crosby later reflected on Shero's impact, saying, “Ray Shero was a big part of my early days in Pittsburgh… I am grateful for our time spent here and that we were able to share a Stanley Cup Championship together.”

Shero, the son of Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Fred Shero, had a background in management before arriving in Pittsburgh, serving as an assistant GM with the Ottawa Senators and Nashville Predators. He succeeded Craig Patrick, the legendary GM of the Penguins, acknowledging the challenge in stepping into the role, “It’s basically a hard act to follow, and it was my first GM job.”

Shero began making strategic moves immediately, drafting pivotal players such as Jordan Staal alongside existing young talents like Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Marc-Andre Fleury. His aggressive strategy paid off when Pittsburgh reached the Stanley Cup Final twice in succession. One notable trade brought Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis to Pittsburgh, a decision endorsed by team owner Mario Lemieux. Shero recounted the experience: “If you think hockey-wise, it’s a good move, I support it.”

Throughout his career, Shero made bold decisions, including replacing coach Michel Therrien with Dan Bylsma, a decision Crosby praised for revitalizing the team. Shero also brought players like Bill Guerin to the team, who contributed significantly to the Penguins’ championship win. Guerin credited Shero for giving him the chance to transition into hockey management, reflecting, "He was unbelievably good to me."

While Shero was let go by the Penguins in 2014, his influence remained through later championship victories, partly due to his drafting strategy. Players like Bryan Rust and Jake Guentzel became crucial contributors in seasons following his departure.

Shero's expertise extended beyond the ice. He brought in multiple talents who went on to lead other teams, earning him respect as a mentor. Former management colleagues praised him as an inspiring figure with a knack for talent cultivation, which Kyle Dubas highlighted as a continuing legacy in the organization.

Jennifer Bullano Ridgley, the Penguins Chief Communications Officer, expressed gratitude for Shero’s support, noting, "He always made sure I was included, he always gave me a voice.” Shero’s warmth extended broadly, creating a culture of support that allowed the organization to thrive.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman remarked on his passing, stating, “Ray Shero’s smile and personality lit up every room he walked into... he was even more beloved for how he treated everyone fortunate enough to have known him.” Shero's influence on the Pittsburgh Penguins and the broader hockey community remains significant, remembered for his humor, kindness, and dedication to the sport.