NHL Rumors: Canadiens & Oilers Were Engaged in Trade Talks

When defenseman John Klingberg hit the free-agent market, many people around the league felt it wouldn't take long for the right-handed defenseman to sign his new contract. Turns out that wasn't the case at all, and Klingberg waited weeks without a deal, eventually to sign for one year with the Anaheim Ducks. According to reports, Klingberg almost signed with the Montreal Canadiens, to only then be traded to the Edmonton Oilers.

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet told the wild story on his latest episode of 32 Thoughts Podcast. The Oilers and Canadiens were in talks to have Klingberg sign in Montreal, to then be dealt to the Oilers with the Canadiens retaining some salary and receiving a sweetener in the trade. With a hard salary cap, executives continue to try and find creative ways to add talent.

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

This potential deal is intriguing because of the fact the Oilers have Tyson Barrie and youngster Evan Bouchard on the right side already, and Bouchard appears set to become a star. No word on what the sweetener would have been, however it's likely a high draft pick, much the same as saw recently with Sean Monahan heading to Montreal from the Calgary Flames.