John Klingberg reveals what he can bring to the Maple Leafs

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Julien Trekker
July 12, 2023 (9:30)

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Is Klingberg the Solution in Toronto?

Brad Treliving wanted to bolster his blue line before the start of the next season, and some people weren't convinced when he brought in John Klingberg to solve his problem.

Klingberg had some great seasons when he started in the NHL, but for the last few years, it has been harder for him, especially defensively.

Michael Russo of The Athletic said things about Klingberg that could worry Leafs fans:

"One of the scariest defensemen I've ever watched. Man, does he take some unbelievable risks that put his teams in tough positions."

However, the defenseman addressed that issue, showing he had learned from his mistakes:

"You're trying to get your game in order, and you're trying to do too much. And all of a sudden, you put yourself in situations where you hurt the team�and that's something that I've been dealing with my entire career. ... I learned that lesson many times."

What Does He Bring?

Here's what Klingberg said he can bring to the Leafs:

"When I'm at my best, I think I play a pretty solid game defensively and then join the rush and be involved in the O-zone and try to get as many shots as I can on the power play and five-on-five, and just try to be creative."

Brad Treliving is also confident he'll perform:

"He was great. I thought he got up and down the ice very well. He's a guy who can break out the puck by himself very well. He brings the puck up into the offensive zone. If there's a turnover, he skates so well that he can get back and support the D-man.

"He's very good on the power play. Holds the puck and drags it across the blue line very well. He can really power-play it up there. So, I think he's gonna be good for the power play."

We can't wait to see him on the ice, especially during power plays. He'll be a great addition to an already deadly unit.

We believe this time it'll be different. Klingberg hasn't started a season in a true contender team since he played for the Stars, and this will probably give him extra motivation.

As seen on Maple Leafs Daily -
John Klingberg talks about his game and what he can bring to the Leafs this season