In the world of hockey, Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Timothy Liljegren is feeling the pressure as roster cuts loom ahead of the team’s season starting next week. Liljegren knows he must stay focused on what he can control as he competes for a spot on the team.
“Trying to earn my spot… haven’t really had that much flow in my game,” Liljegren candidly admitted to Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun. “I think it’s been OK, but not my best hockey.” The 25-year-old is determined to show his worth after re-signing with the Maple Leafs on a two-year, $6 million contract as a restricted free agent.
With a revamped blueline that now includes additions such as Chris Tanev, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Jani Hakanpaa, Liljegren faces stiff competition for a roster spot. Returning players Morgan Rielly, Jake McCabe, and Simon Benoit are expected to be roster locks, leaving Liljegren to battle it out with Connor Timmins, Marshall Rifai, and Philippe Myers for a spot on the opening-day roster.
“Everything can happen, right?” Liljegren pondered when asked about his future with the team. “I’m just trying to take it day by day. I know we’ve got to make some changes, so we’ll see where it goes.” Last season, Liljegren tallied three goals and 23 points in 55 games, with an additional assist in six playoff games against the Boston Bruins.
During Friday’s practice, Liljegren found himself rotating with Hakanpaa beside Rifai in the extra pairing on defence. Drafted 17th overall by the Maple Leafs in 2017, Liljegren has accumulated 14 goals and 65 points in 196 career games, showcasing his potential and determination as he fights for his spot on the team.
