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Douglas Murray joins Flames on tryout basis (Updated)

Montreal Canadiens v San Jose Sharks

Montreal Canadiens v San Jose Sharks

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Bit of a surprise out of Calgary this morning, as the Flames announced they’ve brought 35-year-old defenseman Douglas Murray in on a tryout.

Murray, who spent last season in Montreal -- appearing in 53 regular season and three playoff games -- was unable to secure an NHL contract for this season and subsequently spent time with Cologne of the German League, recording one assist and 24 penalty minutes in eight games.

The Flames could be looking to add some veteran experience on the blueline following the loss of captain Mark Giordano to a season-ending biceps injury, and Murray may fit the bill. Though his footspeed and skating ability notably decreased over the last few seasons, Murray was one of the NHL’s most physical players and hardest hitters in his prime, thanks in large part to his 6-foot-3, 245-pound frame.

A veteran of over 500 NHL contests -- and 75 Stanley Cup playoff appearances -- Murray also has a fairly decorated international career, having represented Sweden at both the 2008 World Championships and the ’10 Olympics in Vancouver.

Updated: Two additional things to point out regarding Murray’s tryout: 1) If signed, he could only play in the regular season and would be ineligible for the playoffs, and 2) the Flames confirmed that another d-man, Ladislav Smid, is also officially ruled out for the year with a neck injury, which could further explain the Murray tryout.