CINCINNATI, OH – The Cincinnati Cyclones announced today the signing of defenseman Matt Murphy ahead of the 2024-25 season. The free agent becomes the fourth signed defenseman along with Josh Burnside, Landon Cato and Steven MacLean.
Murphy is fresh off a 2023-24 season where he played overseas. The Fredericton, New Brunswick native skated most of the year with the Manchester Storm in the EIHL and recorded 22 points (2g, 20a) in 48 games.
"I've heard nothing but great things about Cincinnati from Justin Vaive when I played in Fort Wayne with him", said Murphy. "I reached out to Vaiver and told him I was making the transition back to North America and was curious if there was any interest from Cincinnati."
The 29-year-old is entering his fifth year as a pro and has seen time with both the Heartlanders and Komets in the ECHL’s Central Division. Murphy has suited up for 29 AHL contests on loans with the Abottsford Canucks, Belleville Senators and Providence Bruins.
Matt has won at almost every stop on his hockey journey. He boasts a Memorial Cup championship with the Halifax Mooseheads, a USports championship with the University of New Brunswick and most recently a Kelly Cup title with the Fort Wayne Komets along with Cyclones’ teammate Justin Vaive.
"I've been on both ends. I've been super fortunate to win at nearly every level I've played at. You talk about memories and obviously when I think of my hockey career, all those championships are by far the top ones. Winning as a team after going through so much hard work and sacrifices."
Before making the jump to the pro level, the lefty shooter played four seasons with the University of New Brunswick in USports and five QMJHL years between Val-d’Or, Halifax, Quebec and Saint John.
Call (513) 421-PUCK for tickets and more information and stay on top of all the latest team updates and information on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram, along with our website, www.cycloneshockey.com.
