"Oilers want to be Leafs" " Want Matt Murray too": Leafs fans irate as Toronto reportedly lose out on D-man John Klingberg to Edmonton

On Friday, NHL insider Darren Dreger reported the Edmonton Oilers signed veteran defenseman John Klingberg. Klingberg has been out for over a year due to hip resurfacing surgery. His last game was for the Toronto Maple Leafs in November 2023 against Vancouver.

Klingberg has played for Dallas, Anaheim, Minnesota and Toronto in recent seasons. He will now join the Oilers and try to revive his career.

Dreger tweeted the news on X, and Elliotte Friedman confirmed.

NHL fans shared their thoughts on the signing.

"At least they didn't have to spend an asset to get him. Not sure he's an upgrade to what they already have but he's a depth piece at least, assuming he's truly healthy." a fan tweeted.

Klingberg may not play in Saturday’s game against Vancouver but could return by the end of January. Fans are eager to see how he performs with the Oilers.

"Holy crap this damn team loves taking Leafs' players," one fan tweeted.

"The Edmonton Oilers. The Leafs, but better," another tweeted.

"Oilers really just replaced Ceci with someone who’s even worse defensively," a fan tweeted.

"I don't know what all of you are complaining about. Likely signed for <= to 1.2M. Try him out. If he performs well then great, we picked up a guy who didn't cost any assets. If not, who gives a shit, waive him or trade him. There's no harm done with this move," one fan tweeted.

John Klingberg's struggles with injury in recent years

John Klingberg had a strong start with the Dallas Stars, scoring over 40 points in six of his first eight seasons. However, his role decreased after Miro Heiskanen’s rise. In 2022, Klingberg signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Anaheim Ducks. He played 50 games and scored 24 points but struggled defensively.

Mid-season, Klingberg was traded to the Minnesota Wild and later signed by the Maple Leafs in 2023. Injuries limited him to just 14 games before needing hip surgery. Now healthy, Klingberg is set to return to the ice donning the Oilers jersey after the signing.