Leafs defenseman returns to Toronto ahead of training camp, ready for increased role

It appears that another Leaf is returning to Toronto to participate in a few of the remaining skates ahead of camp. Timothy Liljegren's trainer has posted a farewell message to Liljegren on Instagram as the Swedish blueliner makes the trek across the pond to resume his training with Leafs staff before camp begins. Liljegren looks like he is ready for an increased role this season, based on the training videos his trainer has posted this summer, and the Leafs are expecting him to take on a bigger role.

Without Luke Schenn, Erik Gustafsson, or Jake Muzzin, Liljegren will look to become a regular on the Leafs' blueline this season. He skated in 67 games for the Leafs last season, registering 18 points, playing mainly third-pairing minutes with some spot duty higher up in the lineup when needed. Liljegren did take a step forward last year as he did play more on the penalty kill and had some time on the powerplay, but the Leafs will need him to take yet another step forward and increase his level of production.

The 24-year-old is entering the final season of a 2-year bridge deal that he signed with the club ahead of last season. He'll earn $1.4M in 2023-24 and will become an RFA with arbitration rights at the end of this season. It stands to reason that the young blueliner will need to have a big year to avoid another low payday.