ASU Hockey Recruiting: Late commit Sean Murphy stacks front line

With the ASU hockey team losing four senior forwards in 2012 and another six in 2013, coach Greg Powers didn't hesitate to reload on his offensive weapons.

After signing seven new offensive Sun Devils, Powers added two more this past week, including 20-year-old Sean Murphy.

The 5-foot-8, 170-pound North Carolina native has logged just about as many - if not more - minutes than any recruit coming in.

Over the last three seasons, Murphy has played in 125 NAHL games and 22 USHL games - including 10 NAHL playoff games.

"My decision to play in the USHL was an easy one because I always wanted to play at the top level of hockey possible," Murphy said. "It was a great experience and I learned a lot and met a lot of good friends along the way. The NAHL was also a great league to play in, and it helped me gain a lot of confidence on the ice and off it as well."

The 2012-13 season was arguably the best season for Murphy, as he recorded 19 goals and 21 assists through 45 games playing for the Sioux Falls Stampede and Soo Eagles.

Powers is anxious to see what he can bring to the ice for the Sun Devils this upcoming season.

"Sean brings an overall approach to the game that will, in my opinion, allows him to be a super star at our level," Powers said. "I had been recruiting Sean for quite awhile and numerous times thought we would lose him to a D-I opportunity.

"Recently, Sean made the decision that ASU is the right fit for him and obviously we couldn't be happier about his commitment."

As for Murphy, he's heard about the prestigious program at ASU under coach Powers, and that's just one of the reasons behind his commitment.

"It's exciting to see how successful the program has been in the past, and I'm excited to come in and have a chance to be a part of that right away," Murphy said.

Powers complimented Murphy's talents on and off the ice, calling him a "tremendous teammate", along with great vision and a never-ending motor on the ice.

"With all of the intangibles and experience he brings, he will undoubtedly contribute for us right away," Powers said. "His will and hunger to win a championship just may be what we needed to put us over the top."

Murphy expects nothing less of himself.

"My initial goal coming into ASU is to help try and win as many national championships possible," Murphy said.

Reach the reporter at msterrel@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter at @ASUreporter_MT