Toronto Maple Leafs Depth Defensemen Have Nullified Trade Urgency

As injuries to the Toronto Maple Leafs defense piled up over the first quarter of the season, it was thought that general manager Brad Treliving must trade for help on the blue line.

First, Timothy Liljegren went down with a high-ankle sprain. Next, free agent acquisition John Klingberg was placed on LTIR and had season-ending hip surgery. The final blow was a broken finger suffered by Mark Giordano.

Three of the Leafs top six defensemen would be out for a significant amount of time. Already considered the weakest area of the team, disaster on the back end was expected.

To be fair, disaster could have occurred – the Leafs results have been significantly better than their actual play.  However, a win is a win and for Brad Treliving, it seems patience is paying off.

Treliving did not act hastily or did not find an offer to his liking. The Leafs climbed up the NHL standings and help may soon arrive. (Indeed, Liljegren is already back, while Jake McCabe is playing much better).

Toronto Maple Leafs Unheralded Defensemen Have Nullified Treliving Trade Urgency

William Lagesson, Simon Benoit, and Conor Timmins were not expected to play regular roles for the Leafs this season. They were considered 7-8-9 on the depth chart.

None of the trio have stood out with their play, and that’s good.

They have certainly had moments of struggle when they look like borderline NHL players, but, for the most part, their errors have not been of the obvious, game-wrecking variety.

Timmins has not contributed much offensively, like he did during the preseason, after returning from his own stint on injured reserve. He has, however, contributed a positive Corsi For percentage during his sixteen minutes/game time-on-ice.

Lagesson’s statistics are less-than-average in most areas, but he has managed to play a regular shift averaging around fifteen minutes a game, without severely restricting the team.

Benoit’s advanced stats have been slightly above average in most areas, and significantly improved from last season’s disaster with the Anaheim Ducks. He has also brought a much needed shot-blocking and hitting element to the Leafs defense.

Three players that were expected to be playing for the Toronto Marlies or playing occasionally as a seventh defensemen have instead played regular roles with the Leafs. By doing so, the trio has reduced the urgency for Treliving to seek help via a trade.

Not to be overlooked, is the resurgent play of Jake McCabe. His recent thunderous, open-ice hits have ignited memories of when he first arrived with the Leafs after last season’s trade with the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs biggest area of concern has become one of its most pleasant surprises.

The career trajectory of Lagesson, Benoit, and Timmins suggests is it likely not sustainable. Whether through good fortune or playing above their expected level, they have helped the Leafs navigate some adversity.

All of it together allows Treliving to monitor the trade market and hold on to the Leafs assets. No knee-jerk reaction is necessary. A deal can be made on the Leafs terms.