NHL Trade Rumor: Insider Darren Dreger claims the Dallas Stars joins Maple Leafs, Oilers, Senators in 'chase' for John Klingberg

John Klingberg appears to be a hot commodity around the National Hockey League. Reports in recent days have suggested that the 32-year-old will be making a return to the NHL in the coming weeks and that many teams have shown interest. Klingberg has not played since the beginning of the 2023-24 season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he only managed to suit up for 14 games.

The Swede underwent major hip surgery that he's been recovering from for over a year. TSN hockey insider Darren Dreger provided an update on the John Klingberg sweepstakes this afternoon. Here is what he shared on X. "Refreshing the Klingberg watch.

"As reported last night, 5-7 teams very interested in his return. Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa in the mix. Also hearing the Dallas Stars are in the chase as well. Colorado? Some feel the Oilers now a primary target. Too soon to say," Dreger wrote on X.

It makes sense to see that all of the teams interested in Klingberg as either in playoff position or pushing to make it to the dance.

The former Maple Leaf was last signed to a one-year, $4,150,000 deal for the 2023-24 season. It's widely expected that his next contract will come in at a much lower average annual value, which plays a big factor in the large number of teams inquiring.

John Klingberg is very familiar with the Dallas Stars

John Klingberg was drafted 131st overall in the fifth round back in 2011 by the Dallas Stars. He spent the first eight seasons of his career in Dallas, where he was most productive. Klingberg racked up 374 points (71 goals, 303 assists) in 552 games played as a Star.

He produced over 40 points in six of those eight seasons, made the NHL all-rookie team in 2015, and was an NHL all-star in 2018. It's logical to assume that Dallas would be high on his list of landing spots. After all, it's where he's played his best hockey and the place he's most familiar with.

As Darren Dreger mentioned, Klingberg is expected to make a decision in the next two weeks on where he'll be resuming his NHL career. Expect Dallas to be in the race for his services until the finish line.