John Klingberg will Oilers debut, Coach Knoblauch reveals lineup changes at practice
Edmonton Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch revealed at practice today that defenceman John Klingberg is expected to make his debut with the team along with new defence pairs.
The Oilers signed Klingberg nearly two weeks ago, hoping the 32 year old veteran defenceman can find his game again and perform in a top 4 role after not playing since November of 2023.
John Klingberg making Oilers debut, expecting rotating defence pairs
Oilers insider Bob Stauffer was the first to confirm that Klingberg will play his first game with Edmonton tonight.
According to Oilers reporter Tom Gazzola, Klingberg is expected to rotate with a few different partners in tonight's game against the Detroit Red Wings.
However, the Oilers aren't expecting to dress 11 forwards and 7 defenceman for tonight's game and to accommodate Klingberg's debut. Coach Knoblauch has also revealed that Kasperi Kapanen will be a healthy scratch, and Jeff Skinner will come back into the lineup.
Some more changes should be expected for the Oilers will Klingberg's debut as they test if he's ready for a top four role. It's most likely that defenceman Troy Stecher will also be scratched.
Tonight will be the first game of an important test for Klingberg and the Oilers. Klingberg is a veteran with a long history of success, scoring 412 points in 633 games. However, his hip injury turned him into a net negative player for the last few years of his career.
If he's fully healed now and can get back to his game, he could become a top 4 defenceman and save Edmonton a trade deadline acquisition.
Beginning tonight, Klingberg has the opportunity to prove that he can still be an effective contributor to an NHL contender, and his career isn't at the end.
More details and analysis on tonight's lineup to come.
