No. 2: John Klingberg
Toronto is targeting a big right-handed defenseman right now and the best one on the market is Klingberg, who they should be incredibly interested in.
Leading up to the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline, Klingberg’s name was continued to be rumored to the Leafs because it was exactly what they needed. At 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, Klingberg not only brought size and some physicality, but he brought offense.
If Toronto brought him in, they could have a great looking defense with the following:
- Morgan Rielly/TJ Brodie
- Rasmus Sandin/John Klingberg
- Mark Giordano/Timothy Liljegren
You’d obviously have to trade Justin Holl and/or Jake Muzzin to acquire him, but it’s worth it. Klingberg is a proven 50 point player and can help your powerplay.
If the Leafs don’t offer him a contract or find a way to talk to him, they are missing out on a great opportunity.