The Chicago Blackhawks have traded Connor Murphy, their longest-serving player, to the Edmonton Oilers as part of the NHL trade deadline moves. The deal, confirmed on March 2, 2026, transfers Murphy to the Oilers in exchange for a second-round draft pick, with Chicago retaining half of Murphy’s salary cap hit.
Details of the Trade and Player Background
According to reports from Chris Johnston of The Athletic and Sportsnet’s Mark Spector, Murphy’s move to Edmonton involves the Blackhawks keeping 50% of his $4.4 million cap hit for the remainder of the season. Murphy is set to become a free agent after the conclusion of this season.
Murphy joined Chicago in 2017 via a trade from the Arizona Coyotes and has played nine seasons with the Blackhawks. During this time, he appeared in 547 games, contributing 34 goals and 90 assists. Known for his dependable defense, Murphy is also a five-time nominee for the King Clancy Award, recognizing leadership and humanitarian contributions.
In the current season, Murphy has averaged 16 minutes and 34 seconds of ice time per game, recording 13 points with 55 shots on goal across 60 matches.
Implications of the Trade for Both Teams
This trade provides the Oilers with an experienced defenseman as they strengthen their roster for the playoff push, while the Blackhawks gain additional draft capital to support their rebuilding efforts. Murphy’s departure marks the end of an era for Chicago, where he was a consistent presence on the blue line for nearly a decade.
“Connor Murphy is off to Edmonton, a league source tells @reporterchris. Our initial story:https://t.co/fUCkV1WEsQ”— Mark Lazerus
Connor Murphy is off to Edmonton, a league source tells @reporterchris. Our initial story:https://t.co/fUCkV1WEsQ
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) March 2, 2026
Hearing Connor Murphy moves to Edmonton for a second round pick, with half of his $4.4 M cap hit being retained by the Blackhawks.
— Mark Spector🇨🇦🇺🇦 (@SportsnetSpec) March 2, 2026
