I've watched about 25 Leaf games this year. Mainly bc i was intrigued by Liljegren and what they would do with him this year. Him and Sandin are very close and wondered if them playing together would help improve Sandins game. Also was waiting to see if Niemelä would get any games this year. Liljegren defensive impact was more noticeable this year. Ideally in a perfect world Capitals would have Carlson Spence and Liljegren on the RS. trading the 17oa pick for Spence. I also watched a lot of Kings games. Spence is fantastic. Much better than Clarke who teams have rated as a top prospect.

Robert has an elite shot and play bigger than his size. What do the Capitals need? shooters? scorers? yeah im taking a risk on the kid that has an elite release. Rarely do NHL overlook talent but in this scenario i believe Leafs arent utilizing their talent. Happened with Petterson with the Ducks. Marchessault on the Panthers. Nichushkin in dallas. Capitals have a coach that specializes in developing youth. Stephenson is a prime example of a franchise overlooking talent. so yeah it doesn happen. Even Leason on the ducks has overachieved in a limited role

My guess is that TML feel they need a more established middle 6 forwards. Similar to the Hawks when the let Strome go for free.

dont gotta be a scout to know when a player has a bunch of potential. Tolvanen is another GREAT example. AND DURZI

Thanks for the breakdown - I was genuinely curious as every Leafs post has Lilly and/or Robertson being traded...had to ask the question why even the fans "want" them both out...