Maple Leafs Rumors: Pacific Division Team Named Good Landing Spot For Timothy Liljegren

The Anaheim Ducks are emerging as a potential landing spot for Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Timothy Liljegren, who has struggled to secure a consistent role in Toronto's lineup. 

Despite signing a two-year, $6 million extension after arbitration this offseason, Liljegren was a healthy scratch in the Leafs' season opener and has continued to slide down the depth chart. 

According to The Athletic’s Jonas Siegel, Toronto was “open to trading Timothy Liljegren in the summer,” a stance that still holds, as Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports the team is seeking a “landing spot” for the 25-year-old.

Timothy Liljegren may be on the trade block.

Subject of a lot of consternation in TOR. Has always won his minutes handily in the regular season, including in a top four role last year. Always gets his minutes cut in the playoffs in favour of more physical D. pic.twitter.com/TMFE047ln4

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) October 11, 2024

Anaheim’s rebuilding phase, combined with over $20 million in available cap space, makes it an ideal destination for Liljegren. 

The Ducks have been actively seeking young talent that matches their long-term plans, as evidenced by previous pursuits of Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. 

While Liljegren may not be a blockbuster addition, he offers potential as a young, right-shot defenseman who could benefit from more playing time away from Toronto’s high-pressure environment. 

As Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox noted, “Liljegren, who has flashed promise in a limited role, fits [Anaheim’s] plan perfectly.”

Timothy Liljegren being susceptible to bribes but only in the form of Swedish meatballs, honestly exactly what you’d expect. pic.twitter.com/cIiWOZvFNn

— katie (@itsmitchmarney) March 24, 2023

The primary challenge for Anaheim will be negotiating a fair return, as Toronto may still value Liljegren as depth insurance against injuries. 

However, with draft picks and cap space at GM Pat Verbeek’s disposal, a deal remains feasible. 

Eric Stephens of The Athletic suggests that the Ducks are “trying to build a young team that has enough upside to become a perennial contender,” making Liljegren a logical target if the Leafs are willing to move him.

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images