John Klingberg sighting sparks speculation he's returning to his former team

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made significant improvements under GM Brad Treliving, but one major misstep was signing John Klingberg to a one-year deal in the summer of 2023. Due to lingering injuries, the veteran defenseman played only 14 games, recording five assists but also ending with a -7 rating. He didn't play for the team after that.

With the recent additions of Chris Tanev, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Jani Hakanpaa, it seemed unlikely that Klingberg would return to Toronto. However, a recent social media post from a current Maple Leaf has sparked speculation. Pontus Holmberg's partner shared a photo of the two spending time with Klingberg, raising eyebrows among Leafs fans and suggesting that Klingberg might still have strong connections in Toronto. Given that Brad Treliving originally brought him in, the GM might be interested in giving Klingberg another chance if he's fully healthy.

Although Jani Hakanpaa's contract situation is still uncertain, Klingberg's connection to Holmberg could lead to renewed discussions with the Maple Leafs. Even in a depth role, this might be Klingberg's best opportunity to stay in the NHL this season.

While 2023-24 was a tough, injury-filled year for Klingberg, he has played 141 games over the past two seasons, tallying 80 points. He's proven he can still perform at a high level, but at 31, he likely won't be seeing another $4.125 million deal. However, a one-year "prove it" contract with Toronto at the league minimum might be the best option for him.

Klingberg may not be the offensive force he once was, but according to Daily Faceoff, he could still find a role as an extra defenseman for the Maple Leafs.

Interest in Klingberg around the league is unclear, so he might start the season as a free agent. However, with injuries always a possibility, he could be a perfect candidate for a league-minimum deal, and Toronto could be the best fit given the importance of their blue line to their success.

Source: Maple Leafs Daily
Recent photo may indicate that John Klingberg is still on the Maple Leafs' radar

Source: Hockey DB
John Klingberg stats