Edmonton Oilers Acquire Connor Murphy

0:00For the NHL, it's March 2nd. Here's what's happening. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an update. The Edmonton Oilers just made their first big splash before the trade deadline, grabbing veteran defensemen Conor Murphy from the Chicago Black Hawks. For a 2028 second round draft pick, Chicago agreed to keep half of his $4.4 million cap hit, so Edmonton only takes on $2.2 million. They cleared the cap room by putting the T.S. Janmark on long-term injured reserve and sending Adam Mangiapani down to the minors. Murphy slots in as a right shot defender, bringing steady play to a blue line that's been leaky all season despite the team's offensive stars. Insiders like David Pagnetta from the fourth period called it a smart low-cost move that plugs a keyhole on defense. At 32 years old, Murphy's a physical-stay at home guy who's great on the penalty kill, with solid minutes every night. Oilers, GM, Stan Bowman already knows Murphy well since he traded for him back in Chicago

1:02in 2017. This season alone, Murphy's blocked 87 shots and laid 62 hits in 60 games. With playoffs just weeks away and the deadline on Friday, Edmonton isn't done yet, they're still hunting for a third-line center to round out the roster. For Murphy, it's his shot at real post-season action after missing out most of his career. This story is shared with support from our sponsor. When you need a moment alone, just lay back and listen.