Blackhawks Player Grades: Connor Murphy

Last season, Connor Murphy suited up for just 68 games, but played his highest average ice time per night since 2021-22. Needed as a stable veteran among a crop of young defensemen, Murphy was asked to play in bigger situations thanks to his experience. 

Perhaps most impressive, Murphy tied his career high in points with 19 (two goals, 17 assists). That said, Murphy was constantly relied on to be that defensive stalwart, having almost 70% of his zone starts come in the defensive zone. Truly, Murphy's numbers are never going to be sexy, especially when he's relied on to be on high alert defensively. 

Murphy seemingly took a small step back last season. Perhaps the wear and tear, matched with the constant injuries, have slowed him down. Murphy may have lost a step at times, but his time spent with Ethan Del Mastro created a reliable pairing for Murphy. 

Player Grades

Steve Kwiatkowski's Grade: C

At times Murphy looked great. Other times, he looked horrible. If he was more consistent with the good that he brings to the ice, I would have graded him higher. I also think his leadership outweighs some of the negatives.

Tony Marchese's Grade: C+

At this juncture in his career, Connor Murphy is Connor Murphy. You know what you are going to get. Solid defensive play for the most part with a little extra grit. The stat sheet reads much like it always did for Murphy, but he earns the C+ here for improving upon last years +/- going from -19 to a respectable -2 this season, as well as tying his career high at 19 points.

Ron Luce's Grade: C+

Connor Murphy is surely a beloved member of the Blackhawks. He's a leader, the longest tenured player, and a stable defensive presence. However, after years of injuries building up, Murphy doesn't look like the same player anymore. In just 68 games, Murphy tied his highest offensive output as a member of the Blackhawks, but was wildly inconsistent last season. Once a player used to stabilize other defensemen, it feels like he was paired with Ethan Del Mastro to stabilize him. Maybe he'll bounce back, but an aging Murphy had a very average season.

What's On Tap Next?

Connor Murphy isn't getting any younger, but the rest of the blue line around him will surely be the youngest group in the league. Murphy's leadership will be relied upon more than ever as the next wave of Blackhawks defensemen take the ice. 

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