Blackhawks Trade Veteran Defenseman Connor Murphy to Oilers

Chicago receives 2028 2nd-round pick in deal for longest-tenured player

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to trade veteran defenseman Connor Murphy to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL draft. Murphy, who had been with the Blackhawks since 2017, was the team's longest-tenured player and had served as an alternate captain since the 2021-22 season.

Why it matters

The trade of Murphy signals the Blackhawks' shift towards a younger roster as they rebuild. Murphy's declining ice time and the team's desire to acquire future draft capital made him an expendable asset. The Oilers gain an experienced defenseman who can help bolster their blue line.

The details

The Blackhawks will retain 50% of the remainder of Murphy's $4.4 million salary for the 2025-26 season. Drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in 2011, Murphy has played 805 career NHL games, 547 of them with the Blackhawks. He has recorded 47 goals and 126 assists over his 11-year career.

  • The trade was reported on March 2, 2026.
  • Murphy's four-year contract extension with the Blackhawks was signed in August 2021 and expires at the end of this season.

The players

Connor Murphy

A 32-year-old defenseman who was the longest-tenured player on the Blackhawks roster, having arrived in Chicago in 2017 via a trade from the Arizona Coyotes. He served as an alternate captain for the Blackhawks since the 2021-22 season.

Edmonton Oilers

An NHL team that has acquired defenseman Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2028 second-round draft pick.

Chicago Blackhawks

An NHL team that has traded veteran defenseman Connor Murphy to the Edmonton Oilers as they shift towards a younger roster during their rebuilding process.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Blackhawks will look to continue their roster overhaul in the coming seasons, while the Oilers hope Murphy can provide veteran leadership and stability on their blue line.

The takeaway

This trade marks the end of an era for the Blackhawks, as they part ways with one of their longest-serving players. It reflects the team's commitment to rebuilding through youth and acquiring future draft capital, even if it means parting with experienced veterans like Murphy.