Pat Maroon, the seasoned forward for the Chicago Blackhawks, is contemplating retirement at the season's end, with multiple career paths in mind including coaching and broadcasting. Along with these career considerations, Maroon is preparing for the birth of his child just days before his 37th birthday. He remains grounded during this transitional phase, planning to take things day by day while absorbing the playoff atmosphere.

Despite the uncertainty, Maroon is enthusiastic about potentially entering broadcasting, drawn by the idea of engaging in locker room talk and sharing his insights on hockey. His peers describe him as a powerful presence on the ice and a strong locker room character, echoing sentiments that his brash yet genuine demeanor will serve him well in any future role.

The Calgary Flames have made a noteworthy addition to their roster by signing goaltender Connor Murphy to a one-year, two-way contract. This deal will see him play for the remainder of the 2024-25 season and aims to bolster the Flames' goaltending depth.

Murphy, a 26-year-old native of Hudson Falls, N.Y., has showcased his skills in both the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Calgary Wranglers and in the ECHL with the Rapid City Rush this season. In four appearances with the Wranglers, he recorded a 2-2-0 record, but with a disappointing 4.14 goals-against average and an .881 save percentage. Conversely, his time in the ECHL has been more successful, with an 8-6-4 record, a .912 save percentage, and a solid 2.97 goals-against average, including one shutout.

Last season, Murphy demonstrated his potential in the AHL, where he posted a .922 save percentage over 15 games for the Wranglers. His college career spanned 91 games across Union College and Northeastern University, providing him a solid foundation for his professional career.

The Calgary Flames have brought goaltender Connor Murphy into the fold with a one-year, two-way contract for the remainder of the 2024-25 season. Murphy's journey this year saw him split between the American Hockey League's Calgary Wranglers and the ECHL's Rapid City Rush. While with the Wranglers, he's recorded a 2-2-0 record, a 4.14 goals-against average, and an .881 save percentage across four games.

In the ECHL, Murphy has shown more promise with an 8-6-4 record, coupled with a .912 save percentage and a 2.97 goals-against average, including one shutout. Last season, he played 15 games with the Wranglers, achieving a .922 save percentage and a 2.54 goals-against average, earning a 4-4-3 record. At 26 years old, Murphy transitioned to the Flames organization following a solid college career split between Union College and Northeastern University.

As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Blackhawks are positioned to make significant moves. While Ryan Donato, Petr Mrazek, and Pat Maroon are expected trade candidates, three underrated players are generating buzz: Connor Murphy, Lukas Reichel, and Philipp Kurashev. Murphy, a solid second-pairing defenseman, has proven his worth with 121 blocked shots this season and could be attractive to playoff contenders. Reichel, a young forward, hasn't received proper utilization and could thrive elsewhere. Kurashev, struggling as a healthy scratch, may be ready for a fresh start.

Spencer Knight made his debut for the Chicago Blackhawks in a convincing 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, leaving a strong impression on both fans and teammates. Knight’s performance, where he was named the "First Star of the Game," showcased his remarkable puck-handling skills and composure under pressure, as he faced early challenges from the Kings. Connor Murphy and Colton Dach highlighted his calmness, noting that he played like a third defenseman on the ice, which is crucial for thwarting aggressive forechecking.

Interim head coach Anders Sorensen praised Knight's composure, indicating that he could be pivotal in the team's long-term aspirations. Knight himself expressed ambitions to contribute toward building a championship-winning team, demonstrating a positive mindset despite the Blackhawks’ struggles this season. His experience with the Florida Panthers and having his name on the Stanley Cup last summer adds to the hope he brings to the franchise, aiming to create something special for Chicago.