Defenceman Connor Murphy has agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers worth $4.1 million per season, according to TSN's Ryan Rishaug. The deal, reported on June 22, 2026, keeps Murphy in Edmonton through the 2030-31 season and carries a total value of $20.5 million.
Murphy's Role with the Oilers
Murphy, 32, joined the Oilers as a free agent in 2024 after spending nine seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks. Known for his defensive reliability and physical play, he quickly became a key part of Edmonton's blue line. In the 2025-26 season, Murphy recorded 3 goals and 15 assists in 72 games while averaging over 19 minutes of ice time per game. His plus-minus rating of +12 ranked among the top defenders on the team.
Oilers general manager Stan Bowman praised Murphy's contributions, stating, "Connor brings veteran leadership and a steady presence on the back end. His ability to shut down opposing forwards and mentor younger players makes him invaluable to our organization."
Contract Details and Implications
The extension carries an average annual value (AAV) of $4.1 million, a slight increase from his previous contract that paid $4.4 million annually. The Oilers now have approximately $12 million in cap space for the 2026-27 season, with key restricted free agents Evan Bouchard and Stuart Skinner still needing new deals. Murphy's contract includes a no-trade clause for the first three years, sources confirm.
This signing solidifies Edmonton's defensive core, which also features Darnell Nurse, Brett Kulak, and rookie Philip Broberg. The Oilers were eliminated in the first round of the 2026 playoffs by the Vancouver Canucks, a series in which Murphy logged over 22 minutes per game and registered a key assist.
Reaction from Analysts
TSN's Ryan Rishaug noted the deal's structure: "At $4.1 million, this is a fair market price for a top-four shutdown defender. Murphy's experience and size (6'4") are assets the Oilers value as they aim to contend for a Stanley Cup." The contract also includes performance bonuses that could increase the AAV to $4.5 million if Murphy reaches 30 points or plays 75 games in a season.
Murphy is expected to address the media later this week. The Oilers open training camp in September with high expectations following the addition of forward Viktor Arvidsson in a separate move.
