After weeks of speculation, the Toronto Maple Leafs have officially announced that defenseman John Klingberg will be sidelined for the rest of the season.
Leafs GM Brad Treliving confirmed Klingberg's need for hip surgery, scheduled for later this month, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
This decision opens up an opportunity for Toronto to explore options for another defenseman. Klingberg's $4.15 million salary for this season will be allocated to long-term injured reserve.
Klingberg's contribution to the team this season includes 14 games played with five assists.