Edmonton Oilers sign Connor Murphy, Jason Dickinson deals

The Edmonton Oilers have secured two key defensive players for the next five years, signing veteran defenseman Connor Murphy and forward Jason Dickinson to contract extensions ahead of free agency. Murphy’s deal is worth $20.5 million, while Dickinson’s contract is valued at $20 million.

Murphy, 33, was acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks at the trade deadline and quickly solidified a top-four role on defense, forming a reliable partnership with Darnell Nurse. In 20 regular-season games with Edmonton, he recorded four points, and he added three points in six playoff games. His extension was announced on Monday, June 22.

Dickinson, 30, also acquired from Chicago before the deadline, signed his extension on Sunday, June 21. He is expected to serve as the team’s third-line center and was a critical part of the penalty kill after his arrival. Despite battling a fractured ankle during the playoffs, his presence was felt; the Oilers allowed four power-play goals in the brief stretches he was off the ice during his four appearances.

The signings reflect General Manager Stan Bowman’s focus on improving the team’s defensive structure. The Oilers ranked 27th in the league in goals against...