Maple Leafs Rumors: Could Toronto Trade Timothy Liljegren?

Monday, October 07, 2024

According to Jonas Siegel of The Athletic, there is increasing speculation that the Toronto Maple Leafs could explore trading defenseman Timothy Liljegren, who has struggled to solidify his spot during training camp. 

Despite signing a two-year extension with a $3 million AAV, Liljegren finds himself slipping down the depth chart, potentially falling out of the opening night lineup. 

Younger options like Conor Timmins and veterans such as Jani Hakanpää have seemingly leapfrogged him, raising questions about his future with the team. 

Siegel noted that the Leafs were already open to trading Liljegren this past summer when arbitration loomed, and his current situation only amplifies the trade chatter.

Liljegren’s cap hit further complicates his role. At $3 million per season, he might be an expensive seventh defenseman, especially with head coach Craig Berube emphasizing that the 25-year-old needs to “be heavier in his battles” and “simplify his game” to reclaim a regular spot. 

However, the Leafs' aging and injury-prone blue line, including players like Hakanpää and Chris Tanev, makes it difficult to part with a young defenseman, even if his performance has been inconsistent. 

Siegel wonders whether it would be premature for Toronto to move Liljegren, asking, “Would it be wise to trade the youngest of the bunch?”

Beyond Liljegren, the Leafs face additional roster challenges, particularly among their crowded forward group. 

Siegel speculates that fourth-line center David Kämpf, who carries a $2.4 million AAV, could be a trade candidate to make room for more affordable options like PTO invitee Steven Lorentz. 

The team’s cap constraints and depth issues on defense leave plenty of questions ahead of the season opener, with Liljegren’s future a key factor in Toronto’s upcoming decisions.

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images



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