Oilers bold predictions: Connor Murphy sets three new career-highs

Connor Murphy led the Edmonton Oilers in ice time with 23:09 during his first pre-season game against the Winnipeg Jets, recording two hits and five blocked shots. Edmonton acquired the 33-year-old defenseman from the Chicago Blackhawks before the trade deadline last season for a second-round pick, later signing him to a five-year contract extension worth an average annual value of $4 million.

Following the departure of Darnell Nurse to the San Jose Sharks, Murphy is projected to step into an expanded role on Edmonton's blue line. Predictions suggest the veteran defenseman could establish new career highs in both blocked shots and points while playing alongside offensive talents such as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.