Former Maple Leafs defenseman signs shocking extension

Timothy Liljegren. Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Former Maple Leafs defenseman signs shocking extension

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk
By Nicholas Giannone | Last updated May 24, 2026 2:43 PM ET

The Washington Capitals re-signed former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Timothy Liljegren on Wednesday to a two-year extension paying $6.5 million.

Liljegren’s contract will carry a $3.25 million annual average value. This signing is shocking to most, especially Maple Leafs fans, because of the inconsistency the Swedish defender has shown over his career. The 27-year-old spent the 2025-26 season with both the San Jose Sharks and Washington Capitals, posting 11 points, including one goal, in 47 games.

Inconsistent play throughout Timothy Liljegren’s NHL career

The former Maple Leafs first-round draft choice spent six seasons with the Leafs before being dealt to the Sharks in 2024 in exchange for Matt Benning and third- and sixth-round picks, with the sixth-round pick being for this upcoming draft.

Liljegren’s best season with the Maple Leafs came during the 2023-24 season, where he tied a career-high 23 points in 55 games, showing promise for the young Maple Leafs defenseman. Unfortunately, this did not last, as he continued to struggle and only suited up in one contest for the Maple Leafs during the 2024-25 season.

Signing that came as a shock to many

For the Capitals, this signing is shocking to many. The Capitals are not in a great situation when it comes to cap space. Following the Liljegren signing, the Caps have just over $4 million remaining. For a team attempting to get back into the playoff mix, this doesn’t seem like a wise use of money.

During his tenure with both the Maple Leafs and Sharks, the right-handed defenseman never truly found his footing in the NHL, being taken out of the lineup on multiple occasions, and isn’t trusted by many coaching staffs.

Liljegren’s NHL career still has a lot of time to turn around, and this new contract shows the Capitals have trust and believe in his game moving forward. Playing next to former Maple Leafs prospect and close friend Rasmus Sandin can help his play. People of Leafs nation should be rooting for Liljegren, but his play concerns many around the league.

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

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