Oilers Activate John Klingberg, Provide Updates on Kane & Frederic for Playoffs

1 day ago  /  NHL Trade Rumors

The Edmonton Oilers are expected to activate defenseman John Klingberg off long-term injured reserve before Monday, per Daniel Nugent-Bowman of The Athletic.After missing 20 of the team’s last 21 games due to a lower-body injury, Klingberg will be available for Game 1 of their first-round series against the Los Angeles Kings. Nugent-Bowman also noted that forwards Evander Kane and Trent Frederic are nearing full health in time for the playoff opener, though neither has been officially confirmed yet. John Klingberg will come off LTIR in time for Game 1 and could be an option for the Oilers.Troy Stecher skated in Edmonton this morning, per Kris Knoblauch, so he isn’t expected to be available until later in the series. (1/2)— Daniel Nugent-Bowman (@DNBsports) April 19, 2025Klingberg’s Brief Stint with the OilersKlingberg joined the Oilers in late January, taking some time to adjust before securing a regular spot in the lineup for much of February. Head coach Kris Knoblauch deployed him across all three defensive pairings, where the 11-year veteran averaged just over 17 minutes per game, recording four points, 13 blocked shots, and five hits. His absence ahead of the trade deadline may have influenced Edmonton’s decision to acquire defenseman Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks at a steep cost—Carl Berglund and a first-round pick. That move paid off, as Walman contributed eight points in 15 games down the stretch.Returning at a Critical TimeKlingberg attempted a comeback on March 27 but required additional recovery time, leaving the Oilers without a key right-shot defenseman. Now, his return comes at an ideal moment, especially with top-four blueliner Mattias Ekholm ruled out for the entire first round. Walman, initially questionable for the series opener, has declared himself ready and will slot into a top-four role on the left side. Meanwhile, the Oilers will decide between Klingberg, Brett Kulak, or Ty Emberson (playing on their off-side) to fill out the right side.Potential Reinforcements in Kane and FredericFrederic, another trade deadline acquisition, has been sidelined since March with an ankle injury but has resumed full practices. If cleared, he could provide secondary scoring and physicality to support Edmonton’s stars. Kane, who missed the entire regular season due to injuries and surgeries, brings a similar skill set. Frederic posted eight goals and 15 points in 57 games with Boston before the trade, while Kane had 24 goals and 44 points last season. While Frederic appears closer to returning, both could play roles in the Oilers’ bottom-six during the series. Image - Sam Navarro-Imagn ...

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