The Edmonton Oilers have made their first move of trade deadline week. It is likely not to be their last. They are hoping for a long playoff run with hopes of winning the Stanley Cup.
Stan Bowman spoke with the media in Edmonton on Monday. A short time afterwards, the Oilers GM pulled the trigger on a deal with the Chicago Blackhawks. The deal is for veteran defenseman Connor Murphy. In return, Bowman and the Oilers are giving up a 2028 second-round draft pick. Chicago is retaining 50% of Murphy’s $4.4 million cap hit.
Edmonton was reportedly interested in adding a right-shot defenseman before the trade deadline. By trading for Murphy, the team satisfies that need. Murphy is a veteran defender who can play in the top four.
Bowman, who once worked in the Blackhawks’ front office, is very familiar with Murphy. The 32-year-old Murphy has been with the Blackhawks since the 2017-18 season. Bowan was the GM in Chicago from 2009 to 2021. During that time, he helped them win three Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013, and 2015.
Oilers Get Playoff Ready Defenseman
Murphy, a native of Ohio, is not known for his offensive output. He has registered four goals and nine assists for 13 points in 60 games this season. The large 6’4, 212-pound defenseman is more of a stay-at-home type. He can play a physical brand of hockey and is not afraid to drop the gloves. Just the type of rugged player a team needs in the playoffs.
Murphy can be an intimidating presence on the ice. Something the Oilers look forward to having in their lineup. In Chicago, he played a big role on their top penalty-kill unit. The veteran is set to become a UFA after the season. Unless he re-signs with the Oilers, he’ll be a rental trade for Edmonton’s cup run. He will have a $2.2 million cap hit for the Oilers.
