Nashville, Tenn. — Connor Murphy, a seasoned defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks, is approaching a pivotal moment as the NHL trade deadline nears on March 6. After nine years striving to guide the Blackhawks into the playoffs, Murphy’s contract is set to expire this summer, and with younger defensemen emerging, his place on the team is no longer guaranteed. The prospect of a trade is gaining traction, as it might finally offer Murphy the opportunity to play in meaningful postseason games this spring.
Murphy’s Mixed Emotions About Possible Trade and Playoff Hopes
When asked about his personal wishes before the trade deadline, Murphy expressed conflicted feelings.
“I would like to be here. I would like to also play in the playoffs. It’s kind of mixed emotion. That’s why this time is so hard, having that feeling tearing you both ways. It’s not an easy answer either way.”
Throughout his 12-plus NHL seasons, Murphy has yet to participate in a traditional playoff game with fans in attendance, having only played in the 2020 bubble playoffs, which lacked the usual atmosphere. With a $4.4 million salary-cap hit, his contract permits him to submit a 10-team no-trade list, helping him exert some control over his possible destinations.
Trade Prospects and Teams Interested in Murphy’s Experience
The Blackhawks appear likely to honor Murphy’s contributions by ensuring any trade sends him to a contender with strong playoff prospects. Murphy acknowledges the irony of potentially joining a rival team, explaining,
“It’s an odd thing, the potential to get traded to a team that’s in that spot. I’ve been so focused for nine years on wanting to make the playoffs here, and wanting to play our best and grow as a team…be a better leader and teammate to help push it along. It’s a funny situation. It’s just interesting how the business side can change and pull you to a different direction.”
At the deadline every year, veteran right-handed defensemen are highly sought after by contending teams, this season no exception. Teams like the Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, and Buffalo Sabres have displayed notable needs for experienced defensemen. Murphy is competing with others such as Tyler Myers of the Vancouver Canucks, Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils, Justin Faulk from the St. Louis Blues, Luke Schenn with the Winnipeg Jets, and Rasmus Ristolainen of the Philadelphia Flyers to be picked up by a playoff-bound team.
Chicago’s Management and Team Acknowledge Murphy’s Impact
General Manager Kyle Davidson faces the challenge of negotiating a fair value for Murphy, with a second-round draft pick likely to be a reasonable return. Discussions among players and coaches over the past week have highlighted the deep respect for Murphy’s dedication, signaling a trade may be imminent. Murphy has prepared his wife, Kristina, a Chicago native, for the possibility of relocating soon.
Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill praised Murphy’s performance lately, noting,
“He’s a huge reason why our [penalty] kill has been really successful. He’s defended really well; he’s moved the puck well. He’s shown some scoring. He’s been physical. He’s fought. All those things are an important part of leadership.”
Locked In for Final Games with the Blackhawks Before Deadline
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Murphy remains focused on finishing the current stretch strong. He is expected to play against the Nashville Predators on Thursday in what could be one of his final games wearing the Blackhawks jersey. With three more games before the deadline, Murphy emphasized the importance of staying mentally and physically prepared:
“[I’m] just focusing on trying to get your body and mind into game-play again, because no matter what happens, you want to be playing your best and feeling your best.”
Implications of Murphy’s Potential Move for His Career and the Blackhawks
For Murphy, a trade could finally fulfill his long-held aspiration of playing in a true NHL playoff environment, ending years of near misses. For the Blackhawks, moving their longest-tenured player may mark a transition towards youth and rebuilding. How Chicago manages his departure will likely influence their team dynamics and depth on defense as they navigate the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the acquiring team will benefit from Murphy’s experience, leadership, and versatility during a critical stretch drive toward postseason success.
