Liljegren will be a restricted free agent as of July 1st, coming off of a 2-year deal that saw him earn $1.4M annually. After a season that saw him get plenty of opportunities to take on a larger role, Liljegren's season was a roller coaster. He skated in just 55 games thanks to a handful of injuries, specifically a high-ankle sprain suffered in November. Although he tied his career high in points with 23, his defensive game left much to be desired when he was given heavier minutes to play.
On Wednesday evening, Leafs GM Brad Treliving spoke with the media in Las Vegas, bringing up the fact that Liljegren has arbitration rights that could factor into the Leafs' plans this summer. An arbitration case could net the player a larger award than the Leafs are willing to pay, and if they walk away from the deal, it would make Liljegren a free agent. However, the goal likely remains to either sign him before arbitration or trade him to recoup some assets rather than potentially losing a player who plays a premium position for nothing.
The Leafs are expected to be big players in free agency on Monday, particularly on the blueline and while they are exploring trade options, it would make sense for them to hold onto him as a safety net of sorts in case they are unable to secure one or two more right-shot defensemen.
