The Toronto Maple Leafs have scratched former first-round pick Timothy Liljegren, and indications suggest he may be traded soon.
According to PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, which allows users to create trades, one proposal involves the Maple Leafs sending Liljegren to the Edmonton Oilers.
This trade makes sense, as Edmonton is in need of defensive support while Toronto would acquire a veteran forward to enhance their scoring depth.
The deal suggests bringing in Mattias Janmark, who is in the first year of a three-year, $4.35 million contract. The 31-year-old could serve as Toronto’s third or fourth-line center, allowing John Tavares to shift to the wing, thereby deepening the team’s lineup. Last season, Janmark played 71 games, recording 4 goals and 8 assists for a total of 12 points. Over his NHL career, he has played 567 games, tallying 80 goals and 117 assists for 197 points.
In exchange, Toronto would send Liljegren, who recently signed a two-year, $6 million extension with the team. However, he struggled during training camp and has only played in one game so far this season, making him a healthy scratch.
The Maple Leafs have allowed Liljegren to explore trade options since he is currently their seventh defenseman. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported on ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ that the team is promoting patience, stating there’s still a possibility for him to play. However, at 25 years old, Liljegren is eager for more ice time and has been given permission to speak with other teams.
Despite the discussions, no trade has been finalized, and Liljegren remains with the Maple Leafs as a healthy scratch.
In related news, Edmonton captain Connor McDavid left the Oilers’ game on October 28 due to an injury sustained during his first shift. He was ruled out for the rest of the game and returned to Edmonton for further evaluation.
McDavid will miss the October 30 game against the Nashville Predators, and coach Kris Knoblauch is uncertain about his return timeline. NHL insider Chris Johnston of TSN indicated that McDavid’s injury is significant enough to warrant concern, as the team has recalled a couple of players from the AHL to fill his position while awaiting further updates on his status.