Jim Morrison, a stalwart of the blue line during the Original Six era and one of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ longest-tenured alumni, has passed away at the age of 94, the team announced Tuesday morning.
Born in Montreal, Quebec, Morrison carved out a steady, respected NHL career that spanned over two decades. He spent six-and-a-half seasons in Toronto between 1952 and 1958, where he tallied 23 goals and 88 assists. While he never hoisted the Stanley Cup, Morrison’s impact on the ice was undeniable - a dependable presence on the back end who brought poise and consistency to a Leafs team navigating the ups and downs of the 1950s.
Across 704 NHL games, Morrison notched 47 goals and 191 assists, suiting up not only for the Maple Leafs but also for the Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, and later the Pittsburgh Penguins. His time in the NHL was punctuated by a significant stretch in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he truly shined.
In 1965-66, while playing for the Quebec Aces, Morrison was awarded the Eddie Shore Award - the AHL’s top honor for a defenseman - a testament to his elite play and leadership deep into his career. He also laced up for the Baltimore Clippers during his AHL tenure.
After hanging up the skates in 1973, Morrison didn’t stray far from the game. He transitioned behind the bench, taking on the head coaching role with the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) before moving on to lead the Kingston Canadians for seven seasons. His influence on the next generation of players was evident, as he helped shape young talent during a pivotal time in junior hockey.
Morrison’s hockey journey didn’t end there. He went on to serve as a scout for the Boston Bruins for 17 years - a role that showcased his sharp eye for talent and deep understanding of the game. His legacy as a hockey lifer was cemented not just by his longevity, but by the respect he earned across multiple roles in the sport.
The Morrison hockey lineage lives on through his son, Dave Morrison, who has been embedded in the Maple Leafs’ front office for two decades. Dave began as an amateur scout in 2005-06 and quickly climbed the ranks, becoming Director of Amateur Scouting the following season.
He later transitioned to Director of Professional Scouting, then Director of Player Personnel, and currently serves as a Senior Advisor with the organization. His long-standing role with the Leafs underscores the family’s enduring connection to the franchise.
Jim Morrison’s life in hockey was defined by dedication, adaptability, and a quiet excellence that made him a respected figure in every locker room he entered. From the blue lines of Maple Leaf Gardens to the press boxes of AHL arenas, Morrison’s influence on the game was both broad and lasting. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in professionalism and passion - the kind that resonates across generations of the hockey world.