Coming off a stunning run to the Eastern Conference Final, the Montreal Canadiens head into the 2026 offseason with expectations higher than they've been in years. General Manager Kent Hughes is now actively looking to bolster the roster to turn it into a legitimate, long-term Stanley Cup contender.
One area that remains a priority is the right side of the blue line, and a familiar name is once again emerging as a potential target.
Veteran defenseman Connor Murphy has become one of the more intriguing names to watch as free agency approaches. The 33-year-old was acquired by the Edmonton Oilers at the trade deadline to provide stability and experience on the back end.
Now, after completing the four-year, $17.6 million contract he originally signed with the Chicago Blackhawks , Murphy is set to test the market unless he reaches a new agreement with Edmonton.
The Canadiens reportedly showed interest in Murphy before the trade deadline, but the Oilers ultimately won the race for his services. With Montreal still searching for a reliable right-shot defenseman, that interest could be reignited this summer.
Speaking about Montreal's defensive needs, NHL insider Eric Engels suggested the Canadiens may not need to sacrifice major assets in a trade to address the position. "I don't think it's necessary to include (Kaiden) Guhle in a package to net a quality right-hand defenceman. As a sidebar, I actually think the Canadiens might not have to sacrifice anything more than money to get a quality right-hander on the blue line," Engels pointed out.
He then floated Murphy as a potential solution. "What if Connor Murphy made it to market? Could Hughes get him signed to a deal?"
Those comments have only fueled speculation that Montreal could make a serious push if Murphy becomes available on July 1.
While the Canadiens may be monitoring the situation, Edmonton has not given up on bringing Murphy back.
Oilers insider Ryan Rishaug recently revealed that discussions have already taken place between the organization and Murphy's representatives regarding a new contract.
"Sounds like there's been some discussion between the Oilers and Connor Murphy's camp. Today's Babcock news doesn't change anything as far as the player's willingness to consider a return to the Oilers, but term and dollars will have to make sense based on the market."
That last point could prove critical.
The Oilers continue to face salary cap challenges and have several important roster decisions to make this offseason. Even if both sides are interested in extending the relationship, finding common ground on contract length and salary may not be easy.
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Murphy holds the leverage heading into the offseason. If the Oilers can't make the numbers work, Montreal could get another chance to pursue the veteran defenseman in free agency.
