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Maple Leafs eyeing Blackhawks' 770-game veteran defenseman as Brandon Carlo replacement

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Sam Walker
December 4, 2025 (12:52)

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Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson remains firm on the rebuild even after recent wins, while veteran defenseman Connor Murphy draws serious interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs following Brandon Carlo's injury.

The Blackhawks have exceeded expectations this past month, but Davidson knows how easily a short winning streak can cloud the long game. He committed to a full reset when he took the reins, and that commitment still shapes every roster discussion.

Murphy plays big minutes, often over 20 per night for the Blackhawks and he remains a reliable penalty killer.

He blocks shots, clears traffic in front of the net, and offers the kind of steady, no-nonsense defending that contenders prize down the stretch. Chicago has counted on that value for six seasons, and they know just how hard it would be to replace it.

Carlo's injury, reported Tuesday as a significant setback, opened a sudden hole on Toronto's right side, making Murphy's stability suddenly very attractive. The Leafs, already shorthanded, now face increasing pressure to shore up their defensive depth.

Kyle Davidson pushes rebuild forward with a Connor Murphy trade likely incoming

We recently reported on a major development in Connor Murphy trade talks, and that there is now three teams in the running to acquire the Blackhawks' veteran defender.

When the market offers a clean break at fair value, Davidson has never shown hesitation.

Scouts around the league view Toronto as a motivated buyer. With the Leafs near the top of their division but still vulnerable defensively in their slot coverage, Murphy's presence could plug a glaring hole. If the right package arrives, a deal may happen quickly.

Trading Murphy would also torch an open spot for youth. A rising defenseman like Kevin Korchinski pushed last season and stands ready for tougher matchups. Letting go of a veteran anchor like Murphy would accelerate Chicago's youth movement while preserving future assets.

Davidson's steady long view suggests this rebuild is real, and a first big move could come soon.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Chicago Blackhawks send defenseman to the AHL: A move that should be in play for Sam Rinzel

Projected lineups: Blackhawks hope Bedard continues buzzing vs. Kings Thursday

Oilers pull out of Laurent Brossoit trade talks over reason that could scare suitors away

POLL
DECEMBRE 4 \| 223 ANSWERS Maple Leafs eyeing Blackhawks' 770-game veteran defenseman as Brandon Carlo replacement Should the Chicago Blackhawks trade Connor Murphy now?
Yes trade	134	60.1 %
No keep	89	39.9 %
List of polls

Maple Leafs eyeing Blackhawks' 770-game veteran defenseman as Brandon Carlo replacement

Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson remains firm on the rebuild even after recent wins, while veteran defenseman Connor Murphy draws serious interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs following Brandon Carlo's injury.

Kyle Davidson pushes rebuild forward with a Connor Murphy trade likely incoming

Should the Chicago Blackhawks trade Connor Murphy now?