The Boston Bruins are in the market for a right-shot defenseman to bolster their lineup, especially with Andrew Peeke potentially on the move. If Peeke, a key piece on the penalty kill and a versatile bottom-four player, is traded, the Bruins will need someone to fill that void. Enter Connor Murphy, a seasoned blueliner who could seamlessly integrate into the Bruins' defensive ranks.
Murphy, a native of Columbus, Ohio, has spent his NHL career with the Arizona Coyotes and Chicago Blackhawks. With the Blackhawks looking to offload veteran talent as part of their rebuild, Murphy's $4.4 million cap hit could be appealing for the Bruins, particularly if Chicago retains some salary to facilitate the trade.
The Bruins' current defensive depth on the right side is thin, with Charlie McAvoy as the standout. Adding Murphy could provide the veteran leadership and stability needed to support McAvoy and strengthen the penalty kill unit.
Murphy's experience in 802 NHL games, along with his 47 goals, 172 points, and impressive hit and block totals, make him a valuable asset. Although his recent performance hasn't been stellar, a change of scenery might rejuvenate his career in Boston.
The cost of acquiring Murphy won't break the bank for the Bruins. As a pending unrestricted free agent, there's flexibility in negotiating his future contract. The Blackhawks, with their abundance of draft picks, might prefer a later pick in return, which aligns with their strategy to spread out draft assets.
For the Bruins, Murphy represents an opportunity to address a critical need without overextending themselves. His proven track record and leadership qualities could be pivotal in their retooling efforts, making him a strategic addition to their blue line.