Best realistic outcome for Liljegren is he plays in the top 4 this year. It is really not difficult to imagine Tanev getting hurt given his history. Our defense continues to get older, it would be quite surprising if all of Rielly/Tanev/McCabe/OEL made it through without any missing significant time. Liljegren has played many, many games in the top 4 for us and did an acceptable job.
The bottom line is we are way more vulnerable at defense than forward. It will start to look ugly at one injury and we are far better equipped to call up forwards from the Marlies. Why are so many desperate to jump 25 year old Liljegren when Kampf and Jarnkrok are right there?
I don't want to dump Liljegren. I want him moved in a hockey trade. I agree that Jarnkrok and Kampf move also, and maybe even before him.
We all wanted change this year. New coach, new captain and I like the idea of replacing the Liljegren, Kampf, and Jarnkrok ice time and role with Hakanpaa, Myers, Rifai, Lorentz, Dewar, Holmberg, Cowan, Minten and Grebenkin.
It's about grit and snarl too. Yes, Lily's upside is top four. I had him pencilled in for that this year. This step back in camp is a bit concerning. If we are concerned that this is how he fits in Berube's game, then we move him now.