The Montreal Canadiens explored acquiring Connor Murphy before he joined the Oilers, but a high asking price kept them from making a move.
According to TSN insider Pierre LeBrun, the Montreal Canadiens had some interest in a defenseman who is now with the Edmonton Oilers. While appearing on the Sick Podcast, LeBrun reported that the Habs took a run at Connor Murphy.
While on the Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, LeBrun explained:
“...we know they explored different options. They looked at Connor Murphy, who went from Chicago to Edmonton, and had conversations with Philly about Rasmus Ristolainen. I bring these names up because now with Carrier hurt, it’s worth noting."
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He added, "But having said that, sometimes the best trades you make are the ones you don’t. Given some of the prices I was hearing during that period, there’s just as good a chance the Canadiens would have regretted giving up the assets for the return."
Connor Murphy was a player the Canadiens looked at. Photo by:
© Jerome Miron Imagn Images“They’re playing their best hockey of the season and heading to the playoffs, so all bets are off. Tampa isn’t an ideal matchup, as they’re the best team in the East, but in a wide-open Eastern Conference, anything can happen. This is just the first step in what could honestly be a seven- to nine-year window where this organization takes multiple swings at contention. That’s exciting for any Canadiens fan."
Why the Canadiens Ultimately Didn't Chase Connor Murphy
LeBrun noted that one of the hardest things for a smart management group is resisting the temptation of short-term gain. Looking at the prices on Deadline Day, he said that the Canadiens ultiumately decided that it just wasn’t worth it to chase a player who could help today but would cost a significant asset.
He said the Habs aren't a single player away from winning the Stanley Cup, and called is absolutely wise that they waited. As for the Oilers, their window is different and Murphy has been a huge addition. He's not only stablized their defense, but he's been a big plus for Darnell Nurse -- his blue line playing partner.
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