On Saturday Night at the intermission of the Montreal Canadiens’ and New Rangers’ game, Jeff Marek said that while the Dallas Stars want to keep John Klingberg, they might not be able to fit him under the salary cap. Marek estimates that the Stars’ defenseman is seeking between 62 to $66 million on an eight-year deal, which averages to a cap hit between $7.75-8.25 million.
The reporter added that the Stars, who already have Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell, signed Ryan Sutter (combined $17.9 million) knowing that they could lose Klingberg after this season. The 27 year-old defenseman is in the final year of his contract and is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season.
While Marek didn’t name any possible trade rumours or talks, or any possible teams where he could go, Marc Bergevin and the Canadiens should be all over this like a hawk in a mice field. With the loss of Shea Weber and no prospects ready to step up in that role, Klingberg is exactly what the Habs need. It’s likely just a matter of time before we start hearing rumours of Klingberg (who has no trade protection) and Montreal, amongst other teams. Any deal would likely have to come with a contract extension.