“He empowered us”: Ray Shero's memory kept alive by NHL icons Nico Hischier and Sidney Crosby

Ray Shero , the most highly regarded executive in the history of the NHL, left a lasting legacy that continues to influence players such as New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier and Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby . Ray Shero, who died Wednesday at 62, was a pioneering general manager and leader whose influence extended beyond front-office moves, influencing the lives of players on and off the ice.

Ray Shero was a believer in Nico Hischier from day one

When Ray Shero made Nico Hischier the No. 1 overall pick for the New Jersey Devils in the 2017 NHL Draft , it was he who pushed for that selection with utmost surety. “Whatever comes our way, I don't want to leave this weekend without Nico. Nothing made sense to me without getting Nico,” Ray Shero told the media back then, placing more faith in his gut than in numbers.

For Nico Hischier, recalling that instant and the friendship that grew out of it has stayed with him. “I learned a lot from him; he gave me the chance,” the Devils captain said. “As a 17-, 18-year-old kid, helping fulfill a chance to play, to fulfill my dream to play in the NHL. I just remember good things from him. He was always caring about the people he brought in. He was so great to me. He believed in me right away and never had a doubt. I'm just very thankful for the time I had with him.”

Ray Shero was the general manager of the Devils from 2015 until 2020, transforming the organization's culture and laying the groundwork for a competitive future. During his time as head, the Devils reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2018 and qualified again mere days before he passed away.

Sidney Crosby remember Shero's Pittsburgh turnaround years

Before his New Jersey stint, Shero guided the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2006 to 2014 and built the foundation that would capture the Stanley Cup in 2009. Sidney Crosby attributes Shero with giving young players the confidence to work.

“He was just someone who really empowered me personally, and I think us as a group. You could see what developed there. He had a huge impact on me, had a huge impact on the organization, and just forever grateful,” Sidney Crosby said.

Also Read: Ray Shero: A legacy that lives on: Builder of dreams for the Stanley Cup dies at 62

Friday night, when the New Jersey Devils play the Pittsburgh Penguins—both teams that are going to become synonymous with the name Ray Shero forever—there will be more to this game than just playoff consequences. It will become a tribute to a man who left his impressions on the hockey field, inside locker rooms, and in the hearts of his loved ones. Shero can be deceased, but the confidence, compassion, and culture he brought will survive with every game that is being played and with each young player provided an opportunity to pursue their dreams.