After weeks of negotiating, the Coyotes finally reached a resolution with restricted free agent Connor Murphy, locking up the defenseman Thursday with a six-year contract.
"We are extremely pleased to sign Connor to a long-term contract," General Manager John Chayka said in a statement released by the team. "At only 23, Connor has established himself as a very good NHL defenseman. He's a great skater, a fierce competitor and he has an excellent work ethic. We look forward to him taking the next step and having him on our blue line for many years to come."
Murphy is coming off his second full season in the NHL, tallying six goals and racking up 17 points in 78 games – career-highs while finishing second on the team in hits (175) and blocked shots (139).