John Klingberg: Keys To Avoiding Sophomore Slump

The Dallas Stars found a gem in the 5^th round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft when they chose Swedish native John Klingberg 131^st overall. Last season he debuted in the NHL and had one of the best rookie campaigns by a Stars defenseman in the last two-plus decades, putting up 40 points (11G, 29A) in 65 games. He was, in short, great.

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That, however, was last season and there’s a phenomenon in the NHL known as the ‘sophomore slump’, which is the tendency for standout rookies to be less than successful during their second season in the league. While he’s by no means destined to follow in the path of players like Tyler Myers, it’s certainly a possibility if he loses focus.

The solution to this dreaded curse? Sticking to simplicity. Klingberg, and any other sophomore players heading into the new season, can maintain their previous level of play by focusing on the simple aspects of their game.

Speed

In this league, especially with this group of Dallas Stars, it’s essential that Klingberg keep his skating game in tact. As a defender it’s essential that Klingberg be able to skate quickly back to Dallas’ zone in the event of an odd man rush.

While not his greatest strength, his ability to skate with the quick and talented forwards at Dallas’ disposal is vital to his performance this season.

Offense

Last season no. 3’s offensive prowess is what set him apart. He ended the season with the most points in the NHL for a rookie defender, while also establishing Dallas Stars franchise records of his own for his achievements.

Klingberg’s offensive production should be similar this season seeing that he’s most likely going to play on the first or second defensive pairing and be a member of the power play unit.

For a frame of reference here’s the highlight reel of every goal Klingberg scored in 2014-2015.

Despite the expectation of that same type of production and consistency is unrealistic to expect, the Stars would appreciate if he could contribute at the other end of the ice nearly as much, if not more, than he did last season.

Defense First, Though

As caught up in offense as offensive defenseman like Klingberg can get, it can have a negative impact on his true role as a defenseman. That’s what the Stars signed him to a seven-year contract, that averages $4.25 annually, for and that’s what will be expected of the 23 year old.

Although his offensive talents are of his most notable, Klingberg is a defenseman first, therefore, his ability to help out Kari Lehtonen and Antti Niemi is vital to his success. Having a year under his belt should aid in his defensive decision-making abilities, making success easier.

Playing with Dallas’ most seasoned veteran defenseman Alex Goligoski should also benefit his defensive game, seeing that Klingberg is the most offensive-minded of the defensive core now that Trevor Daley isn’t in victory green any longer.

Conclusion

No. 3 might just be one of those players that performs at a high level throughout his career, but his play will definitely be improved if he follows the aforementioned guidelines.

As a key to the Dallas Stars defensive core for the next seven years Klingberg has a lot on his shoulders, but his sophomore campaign can be just as good if not better than his rookie season if he focuses on the simple aspects of his game.

What do you think about the likelihood that Klingberg falls victim to the ‘sophomore slump’? Leave your thoughts it the comments and, as always, thanks for reading!

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