With the NHL trade deadline looming, the Chicago Blackhawks have been actively making moves. Last week’s major trade sent Seth Jones to the Florida Panthers in exchange for goaltender Spencer Knight and a first-round pick. Now, attention has shifted to other potential trade candidates, including Connor Murphy.
Murphy is among the Blackhawks’ more valuable trade assets, but moving him may not be straightforward. While he could be a solid addition to a playoff contender in need of defensive depth, there are three key reasons why a trade might not happen.
1. Murphy’s Contract
Murphy’s contract presents both advantages and challenges for teams considering a move for the veteran defenseman. He carries a $4.4 million cap hit through the 2025-26 season, which could be a burden for some teams, particularly those already facing salary cap constraints.
Unlike a rental player whose contract expires after the season, Murphy’s multi-year deal requires teams to plan beyond this season, which could complicate trade discussions. Although the rising salary cap provides some flexibility, fitting Murphy into a contending team’s existing defensive core could still be a challenge.
2. The Blackhawks Can’t Retain Salary
One way teams often make trades more palatable is by retaining a portion of a player’s salary, but that isn’t an option for Chicago. Each team is allowed to retain salary on up to three contracts at a time, and the Blackhawks have already used all their available slots.
Currently, they are retaining salary on Jake McCabe, serving as a third-party facilitator in Mikko Rantanen’s trade to Carolina, and carrying part of Seth Jones’ salary after moving him. Without the ability to retain part of Murphy’s cap hit, the Blackhawks may find it difficult to move him unless a third team is willing to get involved. Given Murphy’s contract extends through next season, finding that third party could prove complicated.
3. The Blackhawks’ Commitment to Team Culture
Chicago has shown a willingness to keep veteran players who contribute to the team’s leadership and locker room culture. Murphy, now in his eighth season with the Blackhawks, is the longest-tenured player on the roster and is highly regarded within the organization.
Beyond his leadership, Murphy also plays a role in bridging the gap on the right side of the defense until young prospects like Artyom Levshunov and Sam Rinzel are ready for full-time NHL roles. General manager Kyle Davidson has consistently prioritized maximizing value in trades rather than making deals just for the sake of it. If the trade offers don’t meet the Blackhawks’ expectations, they may opt to keep Murphy rather than move him for a lesser return.
Will Murphy Be Traded?
With the deadline fast approaching, Murphy’s fate remains uncertain. While a trade is possible, the financial and organizational factors at play suggest that a deal won’t be easy to finalize. The Blackhawks will have to weigh their options carefully as the clock winds down.
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