NHL Rumors: Insider Links Ducks Defenseman to Islanders

The New York Islanders made a significant splash when they acquired Bo Horvat from the Vancouver Canucks. As a result of this, they are now a team to watch closely at the deadline, as they could look to make another big move before it passes. According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Islanders could be a potential landing spot for Anaheim Ducks defenseman John Klingberg.

It's no secret that #NHLDucks defenseman John Klingberg's stock has dropped significantly this season.

How much? We'll know in the trade return, but it's not looking pretty for Anaheim. A look at his game and comps:#DeadlineCountdown: 2⃣3⃣ Days to go.https://t.co/X01EeFLI5q
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) February 10, 2023

Klingberg bet on himself and signed a one-year deal with the Ducks this past offseason in hopes of increasing his value in free agency for this summer. However, this move has not gone well for the veteran, as he has just four goals and 19 points in 44 games. A big reason for his decline in offensive production is likely due to him playing for a rebuilding team like the Ducks. Perhaps joining a team with better players like the Islanders could help him find his previous production.

The Ducks would need to retain half of Klingberg's salary for the Islanders to be able to afford him, but it seems likely that they would since he is a pending UFA. We will need to wait and see if the Islanders end up taking a chance on the offensive defenseman from here.