Matt Murray marked his return to Pittsburgh with a heartfelt "thank you" to fans for their support after the death of his father.

Murray took a leave of absence after his father, James, passed away last week, with the Penguins goalie returning to Ontario to be with his family.

"I just want to say a big thanks first of all to Pittsburgh," Murray said Monday. "I want to thank my team — they did a lot for me and helped me get home."

The Penguins have two games remaining before the All-Star break. Murray hasn't played since Jan. 7, missing Pittsburgh's last five games.

"Hockey definitely took a back seat for a couple days, but when you're out there, it's kind of a sanctuary," he said.

Coach Mike Sullivan appears ready to support Murray with whatever he needs, saying the team will work with him as he mourns.

"It's great to see him on the ice and join the team," Sullivan said. "I will have a conversation with him this afternoon but we will take it day by day."

Before Murray left, he posted a 15-12-1 record.