Expect Oilers to Prioritize Extension for New Perfect-Fit Defenseman

The Edmonton Oilers have made it clear that getting Connor McDavid his elusive Stanley Cup is the top priority, and the trade for Connor Murphy could be a key piece in that puzzle. Just ahead of this season’s NHL Trade Deadline, Edmonton acquired Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2028 second-round pick, with Chicago retaining half of his $4.4 million cap hit. Expect GM Stan Bowman to prioritize keeping him around.

Murphy, a defense-first blueliner, immediately strengthens a unit that has several solid offensive defensemen, but doesn’t boast a stay-at-home mentality. Evan Bouchard is among the league’s best offensive blueliners, with Jake Walman also strong, but not one who prioritizes stability in his own zone. Darnell Nurse is a roamer, and while Mattias Ekholm is excellent, he’s also slowing with age. This mix has struggled in front of goaltenders like Tristan Jarry, and Murphy, who posted just a 40.2% expected goals percentage on a struggling Blackhawks team, is just what the doctor ordered.

His numbers should improve in a more structured Oilers system and that could mean the best strategy is to lock up the pending UFA before he gets too pricey.

Murphy Is a Key Offseason Signing for the Oilers

Murphy becomes a key offseason decision, as his contract expires after this season. Bringing him back on a team-friendly extension would solidify the Oilers’ defensive core while giving GM Stan Bowman flexibility to address contracts like Darnell Nurse’s and manage the cap. If done right, the Oilers shouldn’t have to trade anyone, but that doesn’t mean Bowman won’t look at it.