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Klingberg Looks Forward to Changing Narrative With Oilers

John Klingberg feels like he has something to prove in his return to the NHL and he believes the Oilers give him a chance to do so.

Newly signed Edmonton Oilers defenseman John Klingberg is eager to prove he can return to the elite level of play he showcased when he was a member of the Dallas Stars. Admitting to media on Monday that he was not very good while playing with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Anaheim Ducks, Klingberg said, “I feel incredible. I have way more motion and not any pain anymore.”



After undergoing hip surgery, Klingberg has spent the past six months recovering and regaining his mobility. He said that lack of mobility was a huge issue for him, especially on the defensive side of his game, where he had trouble with his reaction time. He’s looking forward to proving that’s not going to be an issue moving forward.

He’ll have to wait a little bit for that opportunity to show he’s back. Head coach Kris Knoblauch indicated Klingberg won’t join the lineup for at least a week to ensure he’s feeling comfortable and up to speed on the team’s systems. Knoblauch assumed Klingberg would catch on fast, but they won’t rush him in and he won’t play Tuesday. There’s no exact timeline.

What the Oilers and Klingberg both said was they hope he’ll get shifts with the team before their upcoming break for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.

John Klingberg Oilers return
John Klingberg Oilers return

Klingberg Feels Like He Has Something to Prove

Klingberg acknowledged that his hip issues in recent seasons significantly affected his defensive play. While he felt somewhat in control with the puck, without it was a huge test. The pain he was feeling limited his mobility and hampered his ability to react quickly, forcing him to give opponents too much space and allowing easy zone entries. He believes he can be a focal point of the Oilers’ defense with that area of his game improved.

He is determined to show he can be a reliable two-way defenseman.

Meanwhile, the Oilers are managing several roster adjustments. Derek Ryan has been assigned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors after clearing waivers but remains a potential call-up option. So too, the team is awaiting a ruling on Connor McDavid’s hearing with the NHL DoPS.

Next: Forward’s Days with Oilers Possibly Done after Clearing Waivers

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