The hockey world was abuzz this weekend with the news that John Klingberg is eyeing a return to the NHL. After a hip injury and subsequent surgery cut his season short with the Toronto Maple Leafs last year, many wondered if the 32-year-old defenseman had played his last game. But according to Elliotte Friedman, Klingberg is back on the ice and aiming to join a team sometime in the new year.
This is intriguing news for a number of teams looking to bolster their blue line. Klingberg, despite a down year in Toronto last season, possesses a skill set that can be invaluable in today’s NHL. He’s an excellent skater with strong offensive instincts and puck-moving abilities. In his prime, he was a legitimate top-pairing defenseman capable of quarterbacking a power play.
Of course, the big question mark is his health. Hip surgery is no joke, especially for a player who relies on mobility like Klingberg. However, Friedman noted that Klingberg is working with the same team that helped Patrick Kane return to form after his own hip procedure. This suggests Klingberg is serious about his comeback and confident in his recovery.
Potential Landing Spots for John Klingberg and Fan Reactions
So, where might Klingberg land? Fans have already started speculating, with many suggesting the Ottawa Senators as a potential fit. The Sens are in desperate need of a right-shot defenseman, and Klingberg could be an upgrade over their current options.
Others believe a contender might take a chance on him, hoping he can regain his form and provide valuable depth for a playoff run. Teams like the Vancouver Canucks and the Los Angeles Kings come to mind, both of whom have shown interest in Klingberg in the past.
The timeline for Klingberg’s return seems to be sometime after Christmas, potentially closer to the end of January. This gives him ample time to get back into game shape and evaluate his options. It will be fascinating to see which teams express interest.
One thing is for sure: John Klingberg’s comeback attempt adds another layer of intrigue to what is already shaping up to be an exciting NHL season.
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