Connor Murphy Nears Return From Recurring Injury

The focus on the Chicago Blackhawks blue line has been on the prospects and Seth Jones. Connor Murphy, the longest-tenured Blackhawk, hasn't played since the 2025 NHL Winter Classic on New Year's Eve. 

Ben Pope reported that Murphy has been dealing with osteitis pubis, the same groin injury that caused him to miss 38 games last year. Although Murphy feels like he could return soon, Pope stated in his article that doctors aren't certain that Murphy can play without interruptions. 

Injuries have been a recurring theme for Murphy since he arrived in Chicago in 2017. He's only played more than 70 games twice since becoming a Blackhawk.

Connor Murphy was seen as a potential trade chip for the upcoming Mar. 7 trade deadline. Murphy has a $4.4 million cap hit until 2026 and was seen as a potential depth piece on a contending team. And remember, the Hawks have one salary retention spot remaining, which needs to be used wisely. 

Murphy's injury hurts his trade value, which was not high to begin with. 

Prior to his injury, Murphy was actually playing ok hockey. He had a 46.10 Corsi and the Blackhawks had 46% of expected goals when he was on the ice. Not great numbers but those are both fourth-best on this team for players with over 10 games played.