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NHL Trade Rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs looking to "find landing spot" for Timothy Liljegren
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported on Wednesday that the Toronto Maple Leafs are exploring trade options for defenseman Timothy Liljegren. Liljegren, a first-round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, signed a two-year, $6 million contract extension with the Maple Leafs in June.
"Sounds like Toronto is working to find a landing spot for Timothy Liljegren," Friedman wrote on 32 Thoughts. "He’s down the depth chart, not a situation anyone is happy with."
Despite the new deal, Liljegren now finds himself on the trade block. The situation is surprising, as it's rare for a player to be traded so soon after re-signing, especially a player with $3 million per year involved in the deal.
Last season, Liljegren played 55 games, scoring 23 points (three goals, 20 assists). He also appeared in six playoff games, contributing one assist. Over his five-season career with Toronto, the Swedish defenseman has recorded 65 points (14 goals, 51 assists) in 196 regular season games. He has played 13 playoff games.
On the international stage, he won a silver medal at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship with Sweden. Earlier this year, he represented his country at the 2023 IIHF World Hockey Championship.
While Liljegren's skill and experience make him an appealing asset, finding a trade partner may be challenging due to financial considerations. The Maple Leafs are looking for a team that can accommodate Liljegren's contract and provide him with a better opportunity as he struggles for ice time on Toronto's depth chart.
Timothy Liljegren was not happy with his position in the Maple Leafs
Timothy Liljegren was reportedly unhappy with his current position on the team. He was not part of the lineup in Toronto’s 1-0 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in the season opener.
Instead, Conor Timmins played in Liljegren’s spot. Timmins' mistake led to Montreal’s only goal, raising questions about Liljegren’s benching.
Liljegren has shown potential last season, but the team appears to favor Timmins. The Maple Leafs' search for a new team for Liljegren will be challenging because of his $3 million salary.
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