John Klingberg admits to having a chip on his shoulder upon signing new deal!

On Friday, defenseman John Klingberg left the free agent market when he agreed to terms with the Edmonton Oilers. The news was later made official with the veteran blue liner signing for $1 million pro-rated and $350,000 bonus.

According to Darren Dreger, Klingberg has a chip on his shoulder going into the season and is eager to prove to everyone that he is healthy and still has lots in the tank.

When it comes to the Oilers, Dreger is adamant they’re getting a right-show puck-mover for salary/signing bonus that is a worthwhile gamble in Edmonton.

It will be exciting to see Klingberg making a comeback after spending more than a year working his way back from a double hip resurfacing surgery.

Many teams were interested in signing the veteran defender, including the Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators, but the Oilers ended up winning the sweepstakes.

Klingberg spent last season with the Maple Leafs after inking a one-year, $4.15 million deal as a free agent earlier that summer. He had five assists in 14 games before having to undergo the hip surgery. He hasn’t played in the league since November 2023.