Days after switching agents, UFA defenseman John Klingberg signs with a new team
After going through two weeks of free agency without securing a new contract, John Kilngberg changed representatives from Alterno Global Management to Newport Sports. Initial reports had Klingberg looking for a long-term deal and there were even discussions about re-joining Dallas.
After switching agencies to Newport Sports, Klingberg, who got married in Sweden last week, has reportedly signed a 1-year deal worth $7M with the Anaheim Ducks.
Everyone's favourite insider, Kevin Weekes, broke the news early Friday afternoon.
Klingberg is a pure offensive defenseman who can quarterback a power play and can comfortably slot into any team's top 4. Taking a 1-year deal in Anaheim can help the 29-year-old boost his value in hopes of cashing in next summer when perhaps some of his preferred destinations may have the ability to open up some more cap space in a year's time.
For the Ducks, this is a sneaky good add that might pay some dividends in a weak Pacific Division. At one point last season, it looked as though the Ducks might sneak into the playoffs as a bubble team. They obviously fell off a bit and became sellers, but Klingberg could end up being a nice replacement for Josh Manson and his offensive output could put the Ducks in a position to sneak in once again this year. Plus, they had the cap space - why not use it?
