Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers Discuss Trade for Right-Shot Defenseman

Connor Murphy could be the missing piece for Edmonton's struggling penalty kill

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers are reportedly in trade discussions centered around veteran defenseman Connor Murphy. The Oilers' penalty kill has struggled this season, sitting near the bottom of the league, while the rebuilding Blackhawks could be looking to move Murphy, a right-shot defenseman who excels on the penalty kill. A potential deal could see the Oilers send prospect Beau Akey to Chicago in exchange for Murphy's experience and defensive prowess.

Why it matters

The Oilers are in playoff contention but need to shore up their penalty kill to make a deep postseason run. Murphy's addition could provide the defensive stability and short-handed expertise they're lacking. For the Blackhawks, trading an experienced veteran like Murphy could be part of their ongoing rebuild, allowing them to acquire a promising young prospect in Akey.

The details

Connor Murphy, a 32-year-old right-shot defenseman, has 4 goals and 8 assists in 57 games for the Blackhawks this season. He is known for his defensive play, shot-blocking, and penalty-killing abilities. The Oilers' penalty kill is currently operating at just 76.9%, putting them near the bottom of the NHL. A trade for Murphy could help solidify Edmonton's defensive structure and provide more support for their skilled offensive players.

  • The NHL trade deadline is approaching on March 3, 2026.

The players

Connor Murphy

A 32-year-old right-shot defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks, known for his defensive play, shot-blocking, and penalty-killing abilities.

Beau Akey

A 20-year-old prospect defenseman drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2nd round (56th overall) in 2023.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Oilers' need to improve their penalty kill in order to make a deep playoff run, while the Blackhawks continue to rebuild by acquiring promising young talent like Beau Akey.