Grades for Each of the Toronto Maple Leafs Free-Agency Moves

May 25, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars defenseman Chris Tanev (3) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
May 25, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars defenseman Chris Tanev (3) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports | Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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Timothy Liljegren Re-Signed

This I love.

I would have loved it more if it was slightly cheaper for even longer, but I guess that Liljegren and his agent aren't idiots.

The Leafs needed to keep one of their only puck-movers, and they got him for a very decent $3 million cap-hit.

Liljegren has upside and he already wins his minutes. He also played on the top and second pairings and looked great.

He looked terrible in the playoffs, but he was coming off an injury and he was paired with human boat-anchor Joel Edmundson.

Overall, a 25 year-old puck moving right-handed defenseman who wins his minutes and already has a ton of pro experience is someone you can't afford to lose.

While I don't love the deal - I would have liked it longer and cheaper - I do love the player. I think as a player who doesn't score a ton or throw big hits, Liljegren gets underrated.

I give this move a

B+

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