According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, the Toronto Maple Leafs explored trade options for Timothy Liljegren over the offseason, but there was little interest from other teams. With the San Jose Sharks being the only team to make an offer and Toronto needing to act, the Leafs acquired defenseman Matt Benning. While he adds valuable depth, it appears the team already has plans to trade the veteran defenseman.

LeBrun explained, “I know many people look at this deal and think, ‘Is that all?’” He pointed out that the Maple Leafs had explored trade options with nearly every NHL team before finalizing the deal with the Sharks. The effort to move Liljegren had been in progress since before training camp, and taking on Benning and his contract was part of the agreement.

Even after signing Liljegren to a two-year contract over the summer to make it more tradeable, the response from potential partners was still tepid, with San Jose being the only serious contender. “Even in-season, the market was quite lukewarm. There just wasn’t much interest,” LeBrun noted.

The Maple Leafs plan to attempt to trade Matt Benning. With Jani Hakanpaa nearing his return, the team felt a need to act and found a mutually beneficial option with San Jose. The Sharks, in need of a right-shot defenseman, acquired Timothy Liljegren, who is eager for a bigger role. The Leafs received a couple of picks in the deal and hope to move Benning.

LeBrun indicated that Toronto might look to flip Benning, whether immediately or closer to the trade deadline, as his role diminishes with Hakanpaa’s return. Benning’s contract, worth $1.25 million for this season and next, adds some urgency to the situation.

If a suitable trade doesn’t materialize, LeBrun mentioned that Benning would serve as a depth option, providing additional support on the blue line.