SprDaVE
Moderator
- Sep 20, 2008
- 55,803
- 41,037
Well he’s an RFA, and I don’t think he has leverage for a hold out.
He’s an interesting case. He’s not big or small, but is strong. A smooth skater, but not a burner. Has some nice offensive skills (passing, puck handling, shooting), but a limited toolbox. He’s steady defensively but prone to a gaffe.
He’s also a RHD.. not as easily replaceable as Warden suggests. If he were a sure thing he’d justifiably be getting a big deal.
I wouldn’t go for Sandin type of money. But a multi year deal will cost you UFA years.
I personally believe d-men continually mature and refine their game as time extends. At 25, I like Liljegren’s skillset that if he continues to do so, he can be a valuable top 4 guy. We have seen him do well in stretches where he played a bigger role.
I would look for something in the 3 x $3 range myself.
Yeah that's a fair assessment to me. I think some are a little disappointed he hasn't developed into a top pair Kaberle-esque defenseman and he's not a big hitter meathead, therefore ship him out. I don't see why the Leafs can't keep him around a little longer, especially if you can get him around 2y or 3y x 3M. That's pretty good value for a team that needs more reliable RHD defensemen.
When Rielly was out he showed how good he can be and that's why depth is important.