John Klingberg: Not Ready to Hang Up the Skates

Veteran NHL defenseman John Klingberg is setting his sights on a comeback after more than a year away from professional hockey. The Swedish blueliner hasn’t played an NHL game since his brief stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2023, but he’s now preparing to lace up his skates once again.

Klingberg’s Long Road to Recovery

Klingberg’s journey back to the NHL hasn’t been easy. He played just 14 games with the Maple Leafs last season, tallying 4 assists but struggling defensively with a minus-7 rating. Signed to a one-year, $4.15-million contract to provide an offensive boost from the back end, Klingberg’s season ended prematurely due to persistent hip issues.

These struggles aren’t new for Klingberg, who has dealt with hip problems for much of his career. In 2014, he underwent double hip surgery, a procedure that marked the beginning of his battle with recurring injuries. His most recent surgery, similar to the one Patrick Kane underwent, offers hope for a full recovery.

A Comeback in the Making

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet revealed during Saturday Headlines on Hockey Night in Canada that Klingberg is taking proactive steps toward returning to the ice. “Sometime just after Christmas, he’s going to resume skating with a junior team,” Friedman reported. “He’s had the hip surgery that Patrick Kane did, is skating with the same people who brought Kane back, and he does want to resume his career.”

The plan is for Klingberg to ease back into skating and training with a junior team before making his return to the NHL. If all goes well, he could sign with a team as early as late January, making him a potential addition for the second half of the 2024-25 NHL season.

Drawing Inspiration from Other Comebacks

Klingberg’s determination mirrors the recent success story of goaltender Matt Murray, who returned to the NHL this season after 629 days away due to his own double hip surgery. Murray’s comeback serves as a beacon of hope for players like Klingberg, proving that a return to top-level hockey is possible even after significant injuries.

What’s Next for Klingberg?

Klingberg’s potential return could bolster an NHL team looking for veteran experience and offensive prowess on the blue line. Known for his smooth skating and ability to generate plays, Klingberg was once one of the league’s most dynamic defensemen, particularly during his time with the Dallas Stars.

While his path back to the NHL is still uncertain, his commitment to recovery and love for the game remain unwavering. If he’s able to regain his form, Klingberg could become a valuable midseason addition to a playoff-contending team.

Final Thoughts

John Klingberg has enjoyed a distinguished NHL career, with 633 regular-season games played and 412 points to his name. At 32 years old, he’s determined to add more chapters to his story. With his eyes set on a January return, fans and teams alike will be watching closely as Klingberg works to make his comeback a reality.

For now, Klingberg’s focus remains on his recovery and getting back to the ice—because for this veteran defenseman, retirement isn’t an option just yet.