Chicago Blackhawks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks] defenseman Connor Murphy is a player to keep an eye on. The right-shot blueliner is entering the final season of his contract, so he certainly stands out as a potential trade chip for the rebuilding Blackhawks. This is especially so when NHL teams are often willing to pay more for big, right-shot defenseman. Due to this, let’s look at three teams who could target Murphy if he is made available by the Blackhawks. DETROIT RED WINGS The Detroit Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings] could make a lot of sense as a landing spot for Murphy, as it is clear that the right side of their defense could use improvement. If the Red Wings acquired Murphy, he could slot nicely on their second pairing with Simon Edvinsson and would also be a clear option for their penalty kill. DALLAS STARS The Dallas Stars [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/dallas-stars]’ biggest weakness currently is the right side of their defense. Because of this, it would not be surprising in the slightest if they made a push to acquire Murphy, whether that is this summer or during the season. If the Stars acquired him, he would provide them with a clear upgrade over Ilya Lyubushkin in their top four. Therefore, there could be a good match here. CAROLINA HURRICANES The Carolina Hurricanes [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/carolina-hurricanes] could also be an intriguing landing spot for Murphy. When looking at their roster, it is fair to argue that they could use another experienced blueliner on their right side. If the Hurricanes acquired Murphy, he could be a good fit on their bottom pairing with offensive defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere. Ex-Blackhawks Defenseman Among Top Free Agents Left [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/83fa6edb-e4c0-4b18-9ae2-6e81bb4a1164.webp] Ex-Blackhawks Defenseman Among Top Free Agents Left With it now being August, many of this year's notable unrestricted free agents (UFAs) have found their new homes. While this is the case, there are still some UFAs with plenty of experience who have yet to get signed. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/ex-blackhawks-defenseman-among-top-free-agents-left] Photo Credit: © Talia Sprague-Imagn Images
