The Detroit Red Wings still have room to make one more smart, low-cost move on defense, and John Klingberg looks like the kind of swing that fits.
After an ugly finish to the 2025-26 season, Detroit has already brought in a few new faces, including Viktor Arvidsson, Keegan Kolesar, Daniil Tarasov, and Jacob Bryson. Even with those additions, the roster still looks like it could use another layer of defensive help before the start of the 2025-26 season.
That is where Klingberg enters the picture. Among the remaining unrestricted free agents, the 12-year NHL veteran stands out as a strong PTO candidate for the Red Wings. He is still unsigned this offseason, but he showed last season with the San Jose Sharks that there is still something left in the tank.
In 56 games with San Jose, Klingberg put up 10 goals, 17 assists, and 27 points. That kind of production matters, especially from a defenseman who can still move the puck and chip in offensively from the blue line. For a team looking for more help on the back end, that makes him a pretty appealing gamble.
Detroit’s right side on defense is not exactly a strength, and Klingberg would give the club another puck-moving option. He is also the best UFA still out there for that role, which only adds to the case for at least bringing him in on a tryout.
If Klingberg were to earn a spot, he would likely be in the mix for the bottom pairing. He would also give the Red Wings a legitimate power-play option, and that is not a small thing. Last season, five of his 10 goals came with the man advantage.
Even if he ended up as extra depth rather than a regular lineup piece, he could still serve a purpose. Injuries are part of the grind, and NHL teams can always use another experienced defenseman waiting in the wings.
So the question is whether Detroit is willing to take the chance. Given the bounce-back year Klingberg just posted in San Jose, it feels like only a matter of time before he gets either a PTO or a contract somewhere.
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