Oilers defenseman officially forced to retire at the age of 31 due to injury
Photo credit: Sportsnet
The Edmonton Oilers thought they were drafting a game-changer in 2011 when they selected Oskar Klefbom, who was sadly forced into retirement this week at 31.
Klefbom was a first round selection, 19th overall, by the Oilers back in 2011, and appeared, at the time, to be an impact defenseman and the future of the blueline in Edmonton. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned for Klefbom and the Oilers as a serious issue with his shoulder has resulted in a premature end to his pro hockey career.
Klefbom officially announced his retirement this week, four years after playing his final game, back during the 2019-20 season.
The 31-year-old defender confirmed the news to Nya Wermlands Tidningen on Thursday, according to Daily Faceoff's Tyler Kuehl.
The Karlstad, Sweden native had played just 378 career NHL games, producing 34 goals and 156 points during his very brief NHL career, which spanned parts of 7 seasons.
Obviously, this is a tough pill to swallow for Klefbom, and the Oilers as well, I'm sure.
All the best to Oskar in whatever comes next, but it is believed that he intends to continue his hockey career in an off-ice capacity.
Source: Daily Faceoff
Former NHL defenseman Oscar Klefbom announces retirement
Former NHL defenseman Oscar Klefbom announces retirement
| POLL | ||
9 AOUT | 546 ANSWERS Oilers defenseman officially forced to retire at the age of 31 due to injury If not for his shoulder injuries, would Oskar Klefbom have become a star defenseman for Edmonton? | ||
| Yes | 287 | 52.6 % |
| No | 259 | 47.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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