Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period revealed earlier this week that the Leafs are open to taking calls on Liljegren, who will be a restricted free agent on July 1st.
The 25-year-old Swede was a first-round pick of the Leafs in the 2017 draft and was expected to take a big step forward this past season. Unfortunately, a high ankle sprain early in the season derailed his progress and since returning, he did not look the same.
While he showed flashes of growth, he often spent much of his time on the third pairing or being shuffled in and out of the lineup and the only reported reason he played in the playoffs was because he offered a right shot option that the Leafs desperately needed.
With reports surfacing that the Leafs could be willing to move on from him and his $1.5M qualifying offer, the Flyers could offer the Leafs another struggling NHLer in return.
Morgan Frost, who was also a first-round pick in the 2017 draft, has been the subject of trade talks in Philadelphia the past couple of seasons. With another year left on his current deal that carries a cap hit of $2.1M, Frost could provide the Leafs with some much needed youth and depth down the middle. In 71 games this past season he had 13 goals and 41 points.
At this point in their careers, both players could use a change of scenery and although both teams would be dealing from an area of weakness, it could be a deal that works out for all parties involved.
POLL | ||
19 MAI | 361 ANSWERS Maple Leafs and Flyers in a perfect position to help each other out Would you trade Liljegren for Frost? | ||
Yes | 250 | 69.3 % |
No | 111 | 30.7 % |
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