Former first-rounder Ryan Murphy signs one-year deal with AHL team

A veteran NHL defenseman has returned from his sojourn in the KHL, as Ryan Murphy signs a one-year deal with the new Henderson Silver Knights for the 2020-21 season. The contract is of the AHL variety, meaning Murphy will not be able to be recalled to the Vegas Golden Knights.

A recall was always probably unlikely at this point in his career, given Murphy has just three NHL games under his belt since the 2017-18 season, but his presence does provide a certain stability for the Silver Knights as they head into their first season after relocation and rebranding. The 27-year old has suited up for 176 NHL games since being the 12th overall pick in 2011.

In 2019-20, Murphy played 56 games with Nizhnekamsk Neftekhimik in the KHL, recording 23 points. There is a chance that at some point down the road he earns another NHL contract, but for now, he’ll just be a minor league leader.