As the NHL season progresses, it’s no secret where the San Jose Sharks stand. The rebuild is in full swing, which means GM Mike Grier will be strategically dismantling parts of the roster to acquire future assets. This puts the Sharks in a familiar “seller” position heading toward the 2026 NHL trade deadline, and one name is already surfacing in league circles: defenseman Timothy Liljegren.
At 26 years old and on an expiring contract, Liljegren is the definition of a prime rental target for playoff-bound teams. He’s a right-shot defenseman with NHL experience, and that’s a commodity that never loses its value. Contenders are always looking to shore up their blue line for the grueling playoff push, and a pending UFA like Liljegren offers a low-risk, high-reward solution without a long-term commitment.
From my perspective, any team acquiring him isn’t looking for a top-pairing savior. They’re looking for stability, depth, and a reliable presence who can eat 15-18 minutes a night. Finding that kind of player on the right side is tough, which is why Liljegren’s market will be robust.
Which Teams Make Sense for a Liljegren Trade?
Based on roster needs and contender status, a few logical destinations are already emerging for the San Jose Sharks defenseman.
First, keep a close eye on the Dallas Stars. This is a team built to win now, with elite talent at the top of the roster. However, true contenders know that depth wins championships. Their right side could absolutely benefit from another solid body, and Liljegren would be a seamless fit. He can slot in on the third pair, kill some penalties, and provide a clear upgrade, which is exactly the kind of move a top-tier team makes to solidify its group.
Next, you can never count out the Vegas Golden Knights. Their entire franchise philosophy is built on aggressive moves and weaponizing depth. They understand that injuries are inevitable and that having seven, eight, or even nine NHL-caliber defensemen is a necessity, not a luxury. Liljegren fits their mold perfectly as an experienced player who can step in without missing a beat, providing valuable insurance and stability for their bottom pairing.
Finally, an interesting dark horse is the Ottawa Senators. They are a team desperate to take the next step and solidify their playoff credentials. While not in the same “Cup or bust” category as Dallas or Vegas, upgrading the right side of their defense is a clear priority. Liljegren would be an instant upgrade on their third pairing, bringing a steadying presence to a group that needs it. It’s a smart, targeted move that signals they are serious about competing.
Ultimately, Timothy Liljegren represents one of the most logical trade-deadline assets for the San Jose Sharks. He’s a reliable, right-shot blueliner on an expiring deal. That checks all the boxes for a contender, and I expect we’ll hear these three teams—and likely more—vying for his services as the deadline approaches.
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