7 Teams Seen as Trade Fits for Blackhawks’ Best Available Defenseman

Connor Murphy is a name fans should watch for out of Chicago. Nothing is happening during the Olympic break, but as teams roll into the March 6 trade deadline, that date is shaping up to be a busy one for the Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks have a few names available, but Murphy is one of the team’s most valuable trade chips.

---

Murphy, a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a $4.4 million cap hit, has quietly put together one of his best seasons in years. As The Athletic noted in a recent article, “He’s big, he’s physical, he kills penalties for the league’s top PK, and he’s willing to fight when warranted. It doesn’t hurt that he’s known throughout the league as a great locker-room presence and easy-going leader who’ll fit in just about anywhere.”

The Blackhawks don’t necessarily have to trade him, but they might. If the offers are solid, there’s not much reason to hang onto him, unless the plan over the Olympic break is to extend him to a new deal. The timing might not be ideal, as Chicago is deep in a rebuild. Murphy — now 13 seasons into his career with only the 2020 bubble as postseason experience — is someone the team might be able to move for future assets.

Right-shot defensemen don’t grow on trees at deadline time. And, because the Blackhawks can retain salary in any trade, Murphy fits that mold perfectly of someone who can be a great fit on a contender. He’s likely a No. 4 option, but he’s a nice second-pairing or third-pairing guy on a deep team.

Who Might Be Interested in Connor Murphy?

Chris Johnston reports, “Multiple contending teams have been keeping tabs on Murphy throughout this season with the understanding that he could be available. “

The Dallas Stars are widely viewed as a natural fit, but six other teams were also listed as potential candidates. Teams like Buffalo, Ottawa, Pittsburgh, Boston, Detroit, and even San Jose could explore adding a dependable veteran defenseman, according to The Athletic.

If multiple contenders get involved, a bidding war could drive up the price. As for how high, that won’t be known for a couple of weeks. For Chicago GM Kyle Davidson, the hope is that at least two or three teams see Murphy as the best of the bunch available at a good price, and Chicago can get a premium future asset in the deal.

Next: Insider: Predators’ Center Checks All the Boxes as an Oilers Trade Target