Leafs call up defensive prospect Timothy Liljegren amid injury woes

A former Leafs first round pick could finally be getting his shot in the NHL due to all the major injuries to the team’s defensive core.

Less than a day after learning they would be without Morgan Rielly for at least eight weeks due to a fractured foot, the Leafs announced they have recalled Swedish defenceman Timothy Liljegren from the Toronto Marlies.

The 20-year old was previously called up back in December, but did not play a single game and was quickly sent back down to the AHL.

Liljegren, who was selected 17th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, has turned the corner in 2019/2020 after an underwhelming start to his pro career. The Marlies have given him more responsibility and increased his ice time this season, and he has taken advantage of the opportunity. He has recorded four goals and 20 assists to add up to a career-best 24 points in just 33 games this season.

It remains unclear when he will make his NHL debut.