The Toronto Maple Leafs have few impending restricted free agents to focus on, with defenseman Timothy Liljegren being a notable exception. Despite logging a career-high average ice time of 19:40 per game last season and maintaining a respectable scoring pace of 34 points, Liljegren struggled alongside many Leafs players in the playoffs and recorded his worst even-strength possession metrics to date.
Injuries marred Liljegren’s season, limiting him to just 55 games. An ankle injury sidelined him for weeks early on, followed by a significant absence due to an upper-body injury during the stretch run. This recurring issue has been a concern for the 2017 first-round pick, who has yet to reach 70 games in a single season, complicating discussions about his future with the team and potential contract negotiations this summer.
According to The Athletic’s Joshua Kloke, there has been minimal communication between the Leafs and Liljegren’s camp regarding a new contract for the restricted free agent (RFA). This lack of dialogue raises the possibility that Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving may explore trading Liljegren’s rights to another team.
Toronto’s priority this offseason appears to be enhancing their defense, goaltending, and depth scoring through free agency, with limited resources and diminishing prospects of trading star winger Mitch Marner. Liljegren’s role in the team’s plans seems uncertain, indicating a potential pivot away from prioritizing his contract.
While Liljegren has shown progress offensively and contributed to the team’s possession metrics with a career 54.6 expected goals for percentage (xGF%), the Leafs have observed inconsistencies in his defensive play, particularly under pressure in his own zone. Despite these concerns, Liljegren’s arbitration eligibility and modest salary expectations suggest a manageable contract negotiation, likely falling within the range of $2 million to $3 million per year.
As the Leafs navigate their offseason strategy with tight salary cap considerations, decisions regarding Liljegren’s future remain pivotal amidst their aspirations for a deep playoff run.