The Toronto Maple Leafs made a trade with the San Jose Sharks, sending defenseman Timothy Liljegren in exchange for defenseman Matt Benning, a 2025 third-round draft pick, and a 2026 sixth-round pick. The Leafs will receive the earlier of the Sharks’ two third-round selections in 2025.
Liljegren, who has been a healthy scratch for most of the season under coach Craig Berube, has struggled to secure a consistent spot in the Leafs’ lineup. Despite showing promise when he initially joined the organization in 2017, his role diminished over time, and he found himself on the outside looking in.
In an effort to add more physicality to their roster, Leafs’ general manager Brad Treliving targeted players like Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, making Liljegren expendable. The decision was further solidified when Berube took over as head coach and opted to give playing time to other defensemen over Liljegren.
With the Sharks, Liljegren will have the opportunity to start fresh and potentially reclaim a top-four role on the team. San Jose, currently in a rebuilding phase, is looking to give him the time and space he needs to develop his game and contribute positively to the team.
On the other hand, the Leafs acquired veteran defenseman Matt Benning in the trade. Although Benning has yet to record any points this season, his experience and defensive capabilities could prove valuable to the Leafs as they continue their push for a playoff spot.
Overall, the trade allows both Liljegren and Benning to have a new beginning with their respective teams, providing them with opportunities to make an impact and contribute to their team’s success in the future. It will be interesting to see how both players adjust to their new environments and what they bring to the table moving forward.