Edmonton Oilers Negotiating Contract with Defenseman Connor Murphy Ahead of Free Agency
The Edmonton Oilers are in the process of securing contracts for their free agents ahead of the opening of free agency on July 1. After signing Jason Dickinson to a five-year deal, the Oilers are now focusing on negotiating a contract with another unrestricted free agent, defenseman Connor Murphy. Talks are ongoing between the Oilers and Murphy, but a deal is not yet close to being finalized, as per a team source.
Connor Murphy, who was drafted 20th overall in the 2011 NHL Draft by the Phoenix Coyotes, has played for the Coyotes and the Chicago Blackhawks before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers in March. During his time with the Oilers, Murphy played in 20 games, scoring one goal and contributing three assists. He also participated in all six playoff games for the team, scoring two goals and adding an assist.
Murphy's previous contract was a four-year deal with the Blackhawks, which began in the 2022-23 season. As he enters free agency, the 33-year-old defenseman is expected to command an average annual value (AAV) of over $3 million on his next contract. The Oilers currently have $13.4 million in cap space, but they also need to re-sign multiple free agents, including two restricted free agents.
In conclusion, the Edmonton Oilers are actively engaged in contract negotiations with defenseman Connor Murphy as they aim to solidify their roster ahead of the upcoming season. With several key free agents to address, including Murphy, the team is working to balance their cap space while securing deals that align with their long-term goals.