It’s been a long road, with plenty of curves for Kasperi Kapanen. But now with the Oilers, the “best team” he feels he’s ever played on, he finally feels like he’s found “a perfect fit.”

The Edmonton Oilers potentially bolstered their defense Friday by signing free agent John Klingberg, a low-risk move that could amount to adding a top-four blueliner. Per Darren Dreger, the contract terms are a $1 million prorated salary and $350,000 in potential bonuses.

Jeff Skinner & Troy Stecher will come back in while Stuart Skinner will get the start on Thursday for Edmonton's second half of back-to-back games at Ball Arena against Colorado

The Oilers depth chart at centre is exceptional, beyond any other team at any other position. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are elite offensive players of the highest order, and this season Draisaitl’s 200-foot game overwhelms opponents.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch refused to elaborate on what exactly is going on with the hiking Swedish defender. Though it wasn’t said in his pre-game availability, OilersTV’s Tony Brar confirmed that Ekholm will be a game-time decision for the club tonight.

Oilers left wing Zach Hyman (18) scores the tiebreaking goal on Blackhawks goaltender Arvid Söderblom (40) in the third period on Jan. 11, 2025, at the United Center. The Hawks lost 4-3. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune) Photos from the Chicago Blackhawks’ 4-3 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Jan. 11, 2025, at the United Center.

The Edmonton Oilers signed veteran defenseman John Klingberg for the rest of the season. Follow this tracker for the latest NHL news.

Dallas needs Klingberg more than the Oilers. Their other three right-shot D — Matt Dumba, Ilya Lyubushkin and Nils Lundkvist — haven’t scored a goal all season long. He wants to play on a Cup contender and wherever he signs, he’s in audition mode for next season.

John Gibson trade rumors persist, but here's why the Oilers should steer clear—high cost, declining play, and better options already in-house.

The Edmonton Oilers have utilized it on multiple occasions to date. Kasperi Kapanen and Alec Regula were brought into the fold via waivers. However, they have also lost players on the waiver wire, most notably Raphael Lavoie and Travis Dermott.

Draisaitl is expected to be a core piece for the Oilers for the foreseeable future. He signed an eight-year, $112 million contract ($14 million average annual value) starting next season and is currently in the final season of an eight-year, $68 million contract ($8.5 million AAV) signed prior to the 2017-2018 season.

John Klingberg will be signing a contract to return to the NHL in the next week, and his deal is expected to include some bonuses.