The Toronto Maple Leafs are still contemplating potential roster adjustments before or during the regular season, particularly as new head coach Craig Berube finalizes his lineup decisions. One player at the center of trade rumors is defenseman Timothy Liljegren, who could be moved as the team grapples with salary cap constraints just days before their season opener on October 9.
Despite signing a two-year, $6 million contract on June 30, Liljegren has seen his stock fall within the organization. Over the past few weeks, he has been practicing with the extras and players likely to be cut from the roster. His $3 million cap hit is believed to be the primary reason the Leafs might consider trading him, as they look to gain roster flexibility. According to Jonas Siegel of The Athletic, the Leafs have been open to trading Liljegren, with speculation surrounding his future growing even if a deal doesn’t materialize immediately. “The Leafs were open to trading Timothy Liljegren in the summer as the threat of arbitration loomed,” Siegel noted. Although the team brought him back on a two-year deal, he has since fallen down the depth chart and may even miss out on a spot in the opening night lineup.
During a recent practice, Liljegren’s place in the lineup appeared uncertain, as Conor Timmins took a right-side role on a potential third defensive pairing while Liljegren skated with the extras. This shift further fueled speculation that the Leafs could trade him to ease their cap issues and make room for the addition of players like Max Pacioretty. The need for roster flexibility makes Liljegren a viable trade asset.
Coach Berube’s comments about Liljegren’s preseason performance have not helped the defenseman’s case. Berube criticized some aspects of Liljegren’s game, saying, “He has to do things quicker. He has to be a little bit heavier in his battles, move the puck quicker, and simplify the game.” Berube acknowledged Liljegren’s desire to be in the lineup but emphasized that trying to do too much can be detrimental. His advice for Liljegren was to simplify his approach and focus on defense, particularly in terms of breaking up plays and being physically strong in battles.
These remarks suggest that Liljegren’s style may not align with Berube’s vision for the team, making him a potential trade candidate as the Leafs aim for roster flexibility heading into the season.