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Ex-Oiler Talks Massive Risk in Klingberg Signing, Hints at 2nd Move

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Jim Parsons | Last updated Jan 16, 2025 1:25 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers might be the favorites to sign John Klingberg, but it better not be the only move they make on their blue line, argues a former Oiler. Jason Strudwick discussed the Klingberg news on the recent Got Yer’ Back podcast and believes Klingberg to the Oilers could come with massive risk, but it could be a smart signing under the right circumstances. If it’s the only thing the Oilers do with their blue line ahead of the trade deadline, they could be setting themselves up for a huge problem.

Strudwick added that the team has to make a decision in a matter of weeks if this guy can be a solution. “… on June 12th, June 10th, or June 9th like that’s a big big decision, and you might put in your season in the balance.”

Why Is There So Much Risk with the Oilers Signing Klingberg?

As wonderful as Klingberg might turn out to be if he’s healthy and shows any signs of the blueliner who used to play with the Dallas Stars, Strudwick explained:

“There’s massive risk if you go with John Klingberg and you don’t acquire another d-man. Because you can’t find out round one that he can’t go. So, I feel, if you get Klingberg, great. You still go out and trade for another d-man. A legit one. Unless you’re 100 million percent sure that he’s the solution.”

Strudwick added that he’s concerned with how quickly everything will come together for Klingberg and the Oilers have a limited window to make a huge decision, potentially relying on a player who isn’t fully recovered or up to speed. Edmonton needs a Plan B, or to acquire a bigger upgrade so that Klingberg becomes Plan B.

Rob Brown noted that everyone knows Klingberg wants to make a comeback and wants to go to a contender, but you would think someone would have an update on his progression. “Like, we’ve all we’ve heard is that he wants to come back. No one said how his skating is or who he’s been skating with that hasn’t come out, which is kind of weird.” “Cuz [Patrick] Kane put a video out,” added Strudwick.

The Oilers Have to Make Sure to Cover Their Tracks With Klingberg Signing

“It’s not completely without risk if they throw bonuses in, and maybe that’s what teams are trying to consider right now,” noted Rishaug. It’s possible that everyone, including the Oilers, are trying to figure out if this player is worth the risk and what kind of deal he’ll sign.

He added:

“If it’s just the league minimum with no bonuses, and it’s strictly just to look see, and it’s easily thrown down in the minors you know, maybe that’s a little more palatable than tying up bonuses that could potentially end up on your cap next year.”

Klingberg wants to show he can play again. He needs an opportunity and there could be an opportunity in Edmonton. But, the Oilers are one injury away from having a depth issue on their blue line and Klingberg doesn’t ease that concern.

What the Oilers do know is that they’ll be kicking themselves if it turns out Klingberg can play, and he comes back and is reasonably useful for somebody. They’ll wish they’d have done the deal. Strudwick admits that’s fine but that it can’t be the only thing the Oilers do. If it is, and Klingberg goes down or isn’t effective, Edmonton will wish they’d added someone else, too.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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