Harry Lichtman
The Washington Capitals have re-signed defenseman Timothy Liljegren to a two-year, $6.5 million contract extension. Liljegren’s deal carries an average annual value of $3.25 million.
The Capitals acquired Liljegren from the San Jose Sharks at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline in March. The 27-year-old blueliner finished the season with 11 points (1 goal, 10 assists) in 47 games for both teams.
Liljegren was brought in by the Capitals to fill the void left by John Carlson. He only appeared in four games for Washington, registering seven blocks, two hits, and three takeaways while averaging 16 minutes a night.
The Capitals will likely give Liljegren a bigger opportunity next season with the new extension. It especially comes with Rasmus Sandin out long-term after tearing his ACL at the end of the 2025-26 season.
Liljegren’s acquisition and Carlson’s departure caused multiple changes to the D-corps. Sandin had switched primarily to the right side and took on a top-4 role.
The Capitals still have to address their right side with Liljegren returning. After Liljegren and Matt Roy, the only other right-handed defensemen on the team are Trevor van Riemsdyk and Dylan McIlrath. However, it’s quite possible that with van Riemsdyk being an unrestricted free agent, he could be replaced.
