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Former Maple Leafs D-Man Timothy Liljegren on the Trade Block

Originally posted on Trade Talk Sports | By Old Prof | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 11:04 AM ET

It didn’t take long for Timothy Liljegren’s fresh start in San Jose to lose acceleration. Less than a year after being traded by the Maple Leafs, Liljegren is reportedly back on the block. The Sharks have made Liljegren available to open up space on their crowded blue line. The former first-round pick, once seen as a future core piece in Toronto, never quite cemented his spot in the top four. When the Maple Leafs dealt him last October, the return—Matt Benning and a pair of mid-round picks—was met with mixed reviews.

Liljegren Had a Solid Season with San Jose

In 67 games for the Sharks last season, Liljegren posted six goals and 11 assists for 17 points—solid but unspectacular numbers for a two-way defenseman. While a reunion with Toronto seems unlikely, he might still draw interest around the league because he’s a rare, right-shot blue liner.

At 26, Liljegren has enough mobility and puck-moving ability to be a third-pair option on a team looking to round out its depth. His time in Toronto might have run its course, but his NHL journey appears far from over.

Sometimes Things Don’t Work Out

Sometimes things don’t work out the way they’re supposed to for NHL players. Talent alone isn’t always enough. Some highly skilled players never quite find the right fit. Others with less raw ability manage to land a home. Maybe it’s about timing, or how a player’s specific strengths translate in real-game action.

In Timothy Liljegren’s case, it’s surprising he never fully landed a consistent spot in Toronto’s lineup. If he moves on from the Sharks, perhaps his next team will finally be the right place for him. Here’s hoping. Whatever happens, best of luck to him.

This article first appeared on Trade Talk Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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