Newest Maple Leafs Blueliner Impresses Sheldon Keefe With His Outstanding Performance

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Dawson Mckenzie
October 12, 2023 (3:33 PM)

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This Maple Leafs Blueliner made his mark in his first game in the Blue and White last night against the Montreal Canadiens.

Klingberg Impresses in his Leafs Debut Against Montreal

Last night was John Klingberg's first official game as a Toronto Maple Leaf after signing a one-year deal with the club this offseason. While he missed a chunk of the preseason with an injury, he immediately made his mark on the Leafs, showcasing his veteran ability to contribute to the offence while playing sound defensively.

John Klingberg has two primary assists in his first two periods as a Leaf.

Great feed by Klingberg to find Gregor alone on the weak side for an easy entry ahead of the goal.

He was even responsible for helping the Leafs tie the game late in the third, after it looked like the game was all but over.

the goal isn't scored if Klingberg doesn't hold the line

Klingberg's Presence Was Felt All Night as he had high TOI

Sheldon Keefe wasn't afraid to use Klingberg to his full extent last night either, despite his lack of preseason game experience with the new Leafs systems. He was second on the team last night in time on ice, with 24:38, only behind Mitch Marner.

Leafs' TOI leaders in the opener:

Mitch Marner: 25:17
John Klingberg: 24:38
Auston Matthews: 24:32
Morgan Rielly: 23:57
William Nylander: 22:41

Head Coach Sheldon Keefe Impressed With Klingberg's Play

Klingberg's performance didn't go unnoticed, as head coach Sheldon Keefe commented on how he thought the defenseman performed well in his debut.

Keefe asked if there was anyone's game he liked tonight. "I thought our fourth line was outstanding. Kampf, Gregor and Reaves were great." Later, he added John Klingberg's performance. #Leafs