Chicago Blackhawks

Report: Blackhawks Looking to Trade Defenseman as Murphy Nears Return

Connor Murphy could return as soon as this weekend for Chicago

By James Neveau • •

The Chicago Blackhawks could be getting a key defenseman back in the coming days, and the team could reportedly be looking at making a trade or two to make room for him on the roster.

The Blackhawks, who have lost eight of their last nine games and have conceded the first goal in nine straight contests, are poised to get defenseman Connor Murphy back for the first time this season after he had back surgery, but they are looking at getting rid of a blue liner to make way for him.

According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, the Blackhawks are shopping a pair of defenseman, as Jan Rutta and Brandon Manning have both been put on the block by the team.

James Neveau
The Blackhawks "Hockey House" is a pop-up store located on Michigan Avenue, just south of the team's flagship store.
There are plenty of interactive elements at the store, including locker stalls featuring jerseys and gear from some of the team's biggest stars.
Fans can also take pictures at the team's photo booth, which is placed directly in front of a large "One Goal" display at the back of the space.
There are plenty of other interesting touches as well, including a mural designed by a local artist to capture the flavor of the city and the history of the team.
These may look like decorative boards, but they are actually from the United Center!
Fans can grab a wide variety of Winter Classic gear, including jerseys, hats, t-shirts, scarves, stocking caps (or in hockey lingo, toques), and much more.
The store will be open through the Winter Classic, which will take place on Jan. 1 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend.
The store will close on Jan. 4, but the team's flagship store down the street is open year-round.

Both players have identical cap hits of $2.25 million, but Manning is under contract for next season, while Rutta will be a free agent at season’s end.

Rutta and Manning have both had their fair share of struggles this season, with both defensemen being scratched in several games. Rutta has scored a pair of goals and registered four assists in 22 games, while Manning has a goal and two assists in 24 games so far this season.

The Blackhawks could get Murphy back as soon as Sunday when they host the Montreal Canadiens at the United Center.

This article tagged under:

Chicago Blackhawks
Exit mobile version