Tyler Kleven solidified his role as a key defenseman for the Ottawa Senators during the past NHL season. After a strong regular season, he played an important part in Ottawa's return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in eight years. This postseason experience allowed Kleven to shine, particularly against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where his ice time increased significantly, showcasing his growth and potential.
Recently, Kleven signed a two-year contract extension worth $3.2 million, securing his future with the Senators through the 2026-27 season. General Manager Steve Staios expressed confidence in Kleven's continued development, noting his impressive performance in his first full NHL season, where he contributed with four goals and 10 points across 79 games. As one of the three former University of North Dakota players on the Senators' roster, alongside Shane Pinto and Jake Sanderson, Kleven's presence on the blue line is seen as a vital component of Ottawa's strategic plans moving forward.