Toronto Maple Leafs Shake Up Roster with Liljegren Trade: What’s Next for the Team?
The Toronto Maple Leafs recently made a significant roster move by trading defenseman Timothy Liljegren to the San Jose Sharks, shedding a $3 million cap hit. This trade not only creates breathing room in their salary cap but also stirs curiosity about the Leafs’ next steps, especially regarding their potential hunt for a reliable second-line center and the looming contract questions surrounding Mitch Marner and Nick Robertson.
The Liljegren Trade: Details and Impact
After weeks of speculation, the Leafs finally made their move, trading Liljegren for Matt Benning, a defenseman with a more manageable $1.25 million annual cap hit that extends through 2025-26. Along with Benning, the Leafs also received a 2025 third-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick, adding valuable future assets. By clearing Liljegren’s cap space, the Maple Leafs gain flexibility to make other roster adjustments, though significant questions about the team’s performance and potential still remain.
Performance Check: Inconsistencies on the Ice
As the Leafs prepare to face the Seattle Kraken, they sit at a somewhat underwhelming 5-4-1 record. Despite big wins against top-tier teams like the Winnipeg Jets, New Jersey Devils, and Tampa Bay Lightning, they’ve also suffered surprising losses to rebuilding teams such as the Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets. This inconsistency has led some analysts and fans to question the depth and structure of the current roster, suggesting that the team might need additional support, especially in its forward lines.
Seeking Stability: Is a No. 2 Center the Missing Piece?
One key concern among Leafs observers is the need for a dependable second-line center to bring stability to the team’s offense. A reliable No. 2 center could help the Leafs compete more consistently against the league’s best teams, but acquiring such talent might prove challenging. With the March 7 trade deadline still months away, the Leafs could be forced to wait for an optimal trade opportunity, though the Liljegren trade gives them a financial foundation to act should the right player become available.
Marner’s Contract Situation: Unresolved Tensions
Mitch Marner’s contract status has become a focal point for Leafs fans and analysts alike. Currently earning $10.9 million annually, Marner’s contract discussions with Leafs GM Brad Treliving have been notably private, fueling speculation about his future in Toronto. Hockey News contributor Adam Proteau suggests that if Marner’s demands exceed $11 million annually, the Leafs may consider moving on, especially given his playoff struggles.
With Marner holding a full no-movement clause, however, he has significant control over his future. This means that while the Leafs may wish to explore trade options, any move would require Marner’s approval, making this a delicate issue for both player and management. As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see if Marner and the Leafs can reach an agreement or if the star winger could potentially be on the move.
Spotlight on Nick Robertson: A Young Talent in Flux
The departure of Liljegren may shift attention to left winger Nick Robertson, who faces an uncertain future with the team. Despite trade rumors circulating during the offseason, Robertson signed a one-year, $850,000 contract and looked strong in pre-season with five goals. However, his regular-season performance has yet to meet expectations, with just one goal in nine games, and he was recently a healthy scratch against the Jets.
According to the Toronto Sun’s Terry Koshan, Robertson is determined to work his way back into the lineup, maintaining a positive outlook despite his recent setback. However, if Robertson continues to spend time off the ice, rumors of a potential trade could easily resurface. His situation remains fluid, and both Robertson and the Leafs will be closely monitored as the season progresses.
What Lies Ahead for the Leafs?
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ roster moves in the coming months could have a significant impact on their season and beyond. Clearing cap space by trading Liljegren has created opportunities, but questions remain regarding how they will address their current roster’s needs. With potential upgrades needed at the second-line center position, and uncertainties surrounding Marner and Robertson, GM Brad Treliving has challenging decisions to make if the Leafs hope to build a contending team.
For fans and analysts alike, these questions underscore the high stakes for Toronto this season. Will the Leafs find the missing pieces to transform their lineup into a stronger contender? Or will the challenges of contracts and performance setbacks hold them back? The answers may unfold as the March trade deadline approaches, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how the Maple Leafs’ season story continues.
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