NHL Rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs, Oilers, Senators among multiple teams showing interest in $4,150,000 UFA eyeing return

Former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman John Klingberg is nearing a return to the NHL. He is an unrestricted free agent and last played for Toronto last season.

After inking a one-year $4,150,000 deal with the Leafs, Klingberg only appeared in 14 games before undergoing major hip surgery. He registered five points (zero goals, five assists).

Over a year removed from the procedure, Klingberg is almost ready to hit the ice again. Several teams have reportedly shown interest and reached out to him.

TSN hockey insider Darren Dreger shared the news on X on Tuesday.

"John Klingberg is closing in on resuming his NHL career. Toronto, Ottawa and Edmonton among the teams with expressed interest. A decision expected in next 2 weeks. Klingberg had hip resurfacing surgery in 2023 and has worked hard to get to this point. 5-7 teams in the mix," Dreger tweeted.

Klingberg was drafted 131st overall in the fifth round in 2011 by the Dallas Stars, where he spent the first eight seasons of his career. He played his last three campaigns with Anaheim, Minnesota and Toronto.

Fans likely won't need to wait long to find out where Klingberg will play next. His familiarity with the Maple Leafs and their training staff could provide them the upper hand in the race to sign him.

The Vancouver Canucks are in the mix with the Maple Leafs, Senators and Oilers

Another Canadian team is intrigued by the potential of signing John Klingberg: the Vancouver Canucks.

"Vancouver among the teams that kicked tires with interest in Klingberg. However, unless something changes, the Canucks aren’t as keen as others," TSN's Darren Dreger tweeted on Tuesday.

According to Dreger, the Canucks may be interested, but not to the same degree as the Maple Leafs, Senators and Oilers.

The former All-Star defenseman is well-known for his offensive abilities. He has recorded over 40 points in six of his 11 seasons. This includes 58 points in 2015-16 and 67 points in 2017-18. For teams looking to bolster their blueline with some offense, Klingberg could fit the bill.