Timothy Liljegren Becoming A Steady Presence On The Sharks Blue Line
San Jose Sharks defenseman Timothy Liljegren (37) and Toronto Maple Leafs center Bobby McMann (74) battle for the puck during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn ImagesSan Jose Sharks defenseman Timothy Liljegren has started to bloom recently, and his head coach is taking notice.
On Thursday, against his former team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Liljegren played 23:13 and had two assists. He was assertive all night and showed why he was a first-round pick.
"I think after the break, I've been more consistent putting some good games together," Liljegren said. "I feel pretty happy about my game right now. [I'm] just trying to keep that going and trying to have fun."
Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky told reporters that he wants Liljegren to play like he's playing the Maple Leafs every night. He also relayed that message to his defenseman.
"I think he's more engaged in the game. I think he's playing on his toes. He's killing more plays. He's playing with the puck more. He's executing his breakouts," Warsofsky said. "I think since the Four Nations break, he's been pretty consistent."
The Sharks' bench boss has harped on his team to 'stack good games together,' and Liljegren has done that in recent history.
"When you stack them together, that's where you get growth in your game, individually," Warsofsky said. "I think when you do that, you start developing yourself and your confidence as a player."
Liljegren says he doesn't have a chip on his shoulder when he faces the Maple Leafs but recognizes that he's had two good games against them this season.
"I've had two good games against Toronto, so I feel like it's more of a joke. Maybe without thinking about it, you have a little bit more juice in your legs," Liljegren said.
San Jose has been waiting for the 25-year-old to break out, and it appears he's in the process. The Sharks' D corps has been solid in the last four games, especially in the last two wins.
Latest On THN's San Jose Sharks site
Stay updated with the most interesting Sharks stories, analysis, breaking news, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
Follow Max on Twitter: @Real_Max_Miller