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Apr 12, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Connor Murphy (5) defends as Nashville Predators forward Cole Smith (36) controls the puck in the first period at United Center. Photo: Jamie Sabau/Imagn Images

Blackhawks Player Grades: Connor Murphy

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Ron Luce | Last updated Oct 2, 2024 8:09 PM ET

Next up in our player grades series is a guy who simply can't catch a break. When on the ice, he's a solid defender and leader. However, that availability is not always there due to his physical nature on the back end.

Throughout his career, Connor Murphy has been a staple on the Chicago Blackhawks' blue line. Acquired from the then-Phoenix Coyotes for Niklas Hjalmarsson, the young Murphy became a fixture in Chicago. However, Murphy has never been one to remain on the ice a lot. In his seven seasons with the Blackhawks, Murphy has only suited up in more than 60 games twice. Otherwise, he's hovered around 50 games played in each season.

The 2023-24 season was a brutal one for Murphy. His play on the Blackhawks' blue line was serviceable, but his availability was spotty once again. Although the injuries piled up, the veteran blue-liner was effective in limited action.

Story of the Season

Connor Murphy suited up in 46 games for the Blackhawks in 2023-24, his lowest total in any season of his career aside from his rookie season. Injuries have unfortunately always been a part of his game, but they haven't rocked him as hard as last season from a game-total standpoint.

Despite the lack of time on the ice, Murphy's role as an alternate captain and a steady, veteran defensive presence among a group of youthful defensemen. Murphy was largely healthy the season prior, showcasing the randomness of his injuries.

However, Murphy still averaged more time on ice per game than the season prior and added two goals and six assists. Murphy was on a healthy pace offensively before the injuries ended his season early.

Player Grades

Jonnie Nonnie Grades: B-

CONNOR MURPHY, EVERYBODY! Murphy battled injuries, so his lack of availability made me dock his grade slightly. The veteran blue-liner isn't what he once was on the ice, but he still blocks shots, kills penalties, and provides a valuable locker-room presence. There's a reason Good Guy Murph wears an "A" on his chest and has been the Blackhawks' King Clancy Trophy nominee for three consecutive seasons. I'll continue to root for him even after his time in Chicago comes to an end.

Tony Marchese's Grades: B

Solid performance despite injuries. Everything you'd expect from Connor Murphy at this point.

Ron Luce's Grade: B

Connor Murphy cannot stay healthy, and it's really unfortunate. When on the ice, Murphy is a stable presence on the blue line. However, his 46 games in 2023-24 were the lowest during his tenure with the Hawks. He wears the "A" for a reason and was really good when on the ice. B rating for me.

What's On Tap Next?

The real question entering the 2024-25 season is Connor Murphy's health. Can he take the ice for at least 70-plus games? In 2022-23, Murphy suited up for 80 games. Perhaps he can find that bill of health in 2024-25. If Murphy misses any significant time, some of the Blackhawks' young defensemen will get an opportunity to shine at the NHL level.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Connor Murphy? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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