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Former Oilers Defenseman Reveals Real Reason He Retired From the NHL


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Jack Sutherland
August 9, 2025  (3:47 PM)
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Former Oilers defenseman Oscar Klefbom
Photo credit: MarkerZone

Former Edmonton Oilers defenseman Oscar Klefbom is revealing the real reason behind his retirement from the NHL, which was made official recently, despite having not played since 2020.

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Oscar Klefbom hasn't played since 2019-20, but made his retirement official just over a calendar year ago.
Klefbom had dealt with a persistent shoulder injury that kept him out of the Oilers' lineup for the last several years, and he explained why he decided to finally officially leave the game.
On one hand, I would be risking not being able to lift my children and enjoy life after hockey. On the other hand, I almost want to risk everything, because being on the ice is the most fun I know.

As far as why he waited until this week to make the news of his retirement from the NHL official, he had the following to say.
I told the Oilers that I wanted to lay very low with what was going to happen and what the situation is. From my side, it was also because it was so difficult to talk about. I wasn't quite ready to say I was done playing hockey. But now I can finally say it's over.
He still feels fortunate to be able to say that he once played in the NHL.
I am very happy with my career. I'm just grateful that I got the chance to play as many games as I did, even though it was with an injury.

Taken with the 19th pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Klefbom had 156 points (34G, 122A) in 378 career NHL games, all with the Oilers.

The Oilers have made multiple changes so far this summer

Despite having gone back to the SCF for the 2nd straight year, the Oilers have made multiple subtractions from their lineup.
The most notable subtraction is forward Evander Kane, who was traded to the Vancouver Canucks. Additionally, they traded Viktor Arvidsson to the Boston Bruins.
Corey Perry signed with the divisional foe Los Angeles Kings, while Jeff Skinner is also staying in the Pacific by signing with the San Jose Sharks.
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Former Oilers Defenseman Reveals Real Reason He Retired From the NHL

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