Former Edmonton Oilers Workhorse Klefbom Officially Announces Retirement

He hasn't played a game in the National Hockey League since the 2019-20 season, but a massive part of the Edmonton Oilers' blueline for over six seasons, Oscar Klefbom, has now officially announced his retirement.

“I’m just grateful that I got the chance to play as many games as I did.”

After 378 NHL games, all with the @EdmontonOilers, we wish Oscar Klefbom all the best of luck in future endeavours as he announces his retirement. pic.twitter.com/Q7lucX6tBa
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) August 20, 2024

The classy Swedish defenseman played 378 games in the NHL, and was a regular workhorse on the Oilers' blueline, averaging almost 23 minutes a game over his six+ years in the league.

“I’m just grateful that I got the chance to play as many games as I did," said Klefbom in a statement. He was unfortunately forced from the game due to a chronic shoulder injury, and the decision to finally call it a career was a difficult one.

He set career highs with 12 goals and 38 points in the 2016-17 season, playing all 82 games for the Oilers, and in his final season, 2019-20, averaged a career-best 25:25 minutes on ice per night.

Klefbom impacted the game for the entire 200 feet, flashing finesse and a physical presence with his 6'3" frame.

It's a bittersweet announcement, as congratulations are in order on a great career, for Klefbom, though it was cut short by injury.

Oscar Klefbom has officially announced his retirement from the @NHL after 7 seasons.

Oscar was drafted 19th overall by the @EdmontonOilers in the 2011 Entry Draft. Since then, he played in 378 games with the franchise, scoring 156 points as a defenceman.

Klefbom’s presence on… pic.twitter.com/ZrHWlEe9Cr
— NHL Alumni (@NHLAlumni) August 20, 2024