The trade proposal on PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool suggesting the Montreal Canadiens acquire Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks has drawn interest because Murphy could be a solid addition to the Habs’ defensive core. Murphy is a reliable, right-shot, top-four defenseman known for his physical play, shot-blocking ability, and defensive responsibility. His experience would add depth and stability to a young Canadiens blue line, which has promising talent but could benefit from veteran presence.
Murphy has three years left on his contract with a cap hit of $4.4 million, which could fit the Canadiens’ cap structure if Chicago retains some salary or if Montreal moves out a contract as part of the trade. Such an acquisition would give the Canadiens a dependable defender without sacrificing their core prospects and future assets.
Canadiens acquire:
The proposed trade—Connor Murphy and a 2025 fourth-round pick (via the Rangers) to Montreal in exchange for Justin Barron, Sean Farrell, and a 2025 second-round pick (via Pittsburgh)—does seem mutually beneficial for both the Canadiens and Blackhawks.
For Montreal, Connor Murphy offers the immediate top-four defensive help they need. At 31, Murphy brings experience and a steady defensive presence, and his contract, while significant, could be manageable if the Canadiens believe he’s the right fit for the next couple of seasons. His physical style and defensive mindset would balance Montreal’s younger, more offensively inclined defensemen, and although his offensive stats are modest, he can contribute at both ends.
Chicago, meanwhile, would receive a solid return that aligns well with their rebuild. Justin Barron, at 22, could slot directly into the lineup and grow within their young defensive core. Barron’s offensive upside (7 goals and 6 assists in 48 games last season) makes him an enticing replacement for Murphy with room to develop. Sean Farrell, a promising forward prospect, and the additional 2025 second-round pick give Chicago flexibility and potential assets to continue building their future roster.
Sean Farrell, at 22, is still developing in the AHL but shows promise as a versatile forward. In Chicago’s system, he could start in the AHL, providing solid depth. Farrell’s experience and skill set make him a candidate for a call-up to the NHL if injuries arise, particularly in a third- or fourth-line role. This flexibility and potential to slot into Chicago’s lineup would help balance their immediate needs while giving Farrell time to refine his game.
Canadiens Looking to Acquire Top-4 Defenseman
The Montreal Canadiens are actively exploring the trade market to bolster their defense as they navigate a 4-5-1 start to the season. According to NHL insiders Pierre LeBrun and Frank Seravalli, general manager Kent Hughes has been assessing options to acquire a top-four, right-shooting defenseman—a clear priority to strengthen their blue line. However, Seravalli noted that the price for such a player remains high, making an immediate trade unlikely unless the Canadiens are willing to part with significant assets.
This push for defensive improvement highlights Montreal’s focus on ending their playoff drought, which dates back to the 2019-20 season. A top-four defenseman could provide stability and help them compete more effectively, potentially balancing their offensive output with more robust defensive play.
Blackhawks’ Murphy’s Name Has Come up in Trade Talks
Connor Murphy is once again surfacing in trade discussions as teams look for defensive reinforcements, and his name is one to watch this season. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently mentioned Murphy on *Oilers Now*, noting that he’s been a player of interest to several teams in the past, with last season’s trade buzz quieted only by an injury. Given Murphy’s strong defensive skills and experience, he’s a valuable asset who could appeal to teams in need of a steadying presence on the blue line.
If the Blackhawks find themselves out of playoff contention near the trade deadline, it’s likely Murphy’s name will reemerge, and Montreal is already rumored to be considering him to strengthen their defense. His current three-year, $17.6 million contract makes him an attractive, longer-term option for teams looking to add depth and stability to their defensive core.
