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Leafs D John Klingberg done for the season

TORONTO – Maple Leafs defenceman John Klingberg’s season is over.

Toronto general manager Brad Treliving told reporters after Wednesday’s practice the 31-year-old is set to undergo hip surgery in the coming weeks that will keep him sidelined up to six months.

Klingberg signed a US$4.15-million contract with the Leafs in free agency with an eye toward the smooth-skating Swede adding to the team’s attack.

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But he struggled early and never looked comfortable in Toronto, registering five assists in 14 games.

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Klingberg, who hasn’t played since Nov. 11, was placed on long-term injured reserve last month.

Treliving can now use Klingberg’s $4.15-million salary cap hit to bolster his roster, with help for a battered blue line also currently missing Timothy Liljegren (high ankle sprain) and Mark Giordano (broken finger) a top priority.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 6, 2023.

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