The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly looking to trade defenseman Timothy Liljegren, a former first-round pick, following a lackluster performance in training camp. According to the trade proposal generator on PuckPedia, one user suggested a deal that would send Liljegren to the Nashville Predators.

Proposed Deal:

– Maple Leafs Receive:
– Luke Schenn
– 2025 second-round pick (from Tampa Bay)
– 2026 fifth-round pick

– Predators Receive:
– Timothy Liljegren
– Calle Jarnkrok

This proposed trade seems logical, as the Maple Leafs would gain an experienced defenseman along with draft picks, while Nashville would take a chance on Liljegren and add a middle-six forward in Jarnkrok.

The Maple Leafs would be reacquiring Schenn, who they drafted fifth overall in 2008. After spending his first four years in Toronto, he returned during the 2023 trade deadline and is now in the second year of a three-year, $8.25 million contract. He is expected to slot in as a third-pairing right-shot defenseman.

Liljegren, who was picked 17th overall in 2017, signed a two-year, $6 million deal with Toronto this offseason but appears unlikely to make the roster, making him a trade candidate.

Jarnkrok, who could serve as a middle-six forward for Nashville, is also seen as expendable for the Maple Leafs. Entering the third year of his four-year, $8.4 million contract, he recorded 10 goals and 11 assists in 52 games last season.

Coach’s Critique of Liljegren

Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube has expressed criticism of Liljegren’s performance in training camp, noting that he needs to improve his play. Berube stated, “Lily’s gotta do things quicker. He’s got to be a little bit heavier in his battles, moving pucks quicker and simplify his game.” He emphasized that while Liljegren is eager to contribute, he should focus on simplifying his approach to better fulfill his defensive duties.

Liljegren acknowledged his struggles, saying, “I’m working. Trying to earn my spot. Not my best hockey, but it’s been okay.” Over his NHL career, he has played 196 games, registering 14 goals and 51 assists for a total of 65 points.

Timmins Makes the Maple Leafs Roster

In contrast, defenseman Conor Timmins has successfully made the Maple Leafs roster. Selected 32nd overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, Timmins is in the final year of his two-year, $2.2 million contract. His strong performance in training camp impressed Berube enough to secure a spot for opening night.

“[Timmins] played well. I think he’s been highly competitive,” Berube noted. “First and foremost, playing defense, you gotta defend and be competitive and do all the things there that we need. But I like the puck movement. He moves the puck well. Sees the ice well.”

Last season, Timmins played in 25 games for the Maple Leafs, recording 1 goal and 9 assists for 10 points. In his NHL career, he has played 91 games, tallying 3 goals and 28 assists for 31 points.