Timothy Liljegren
Timothy Liljegren is entering his third full season with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Last season he registered six goals and 12 assists for 18 points in 67 games. He had 23 points in 61 games the previous season. The Leafs need Liljegren to take the next step and earn a bigger role on their blueline.
Liljegren has all the tools to be a good defenseman for the Leafs for years to come.
This season is a chance for him to climb the mountain a little higher. The 24-year-old has a very high ceiling and is still learning.
He has an opportunity this season to earn a regular spot in the top two defense pairings. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him playing on the top pair with Morgan Rielly occasionally.
With the 2023-24 season being the final year on the contracts for T.J. Brodie, John Klingberg, and Giordano, Liljegren has to prove to the coaching staff and management that they can trust him to claim the playing time of one of those departing players.
The 2023-24 season could prove to be a pivotal one for Liljegren and his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Expectations for Liljegren this season should be eight goals and 20 assists for 28 points in 82 games, along with 105 blocked shots and 120 hits.