The San Jose Sharks claimed veteran defenseman Nick Leddy off waivers from the St. Louis Blues.
The 34-year-old, left-handed blueliner brings a wealth of experience to a Sharks team looking to rebound from a challenging 2024-25 season, where they allowed a league-high 310 goals.
Leddy, who has one year remaining on a four-year, $16 million contract with a $4 million cap hit, appeared in 31 games for the Blues last season, recording two goals and three assists while averaging 18:40 of ice time per game. Despite missing significant time due to a lower-body injury, Leddy’s 1,042 career NHL games and Stanley Cup championship with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 highlight his value as a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman. His addition, alongside the signing of Dmitry Orlov to a two-year, $13 million deal on the same day, pushes the Sharks over the NHL salary cap floor, addressing a critical need for financial compliance and defensive depth.
San Jose’s general manager, Mike Grier, expressed surprise and enthusiasm about the acquisition, noting Leddy’s veteran presence and fit within the team’s revamped blue line, which also includes recent additions John Klingberg and Orlov. While Leddy may not be the shutdown defender to drastically reduce goals against, his ability to transition the puck and contribute as a third-pairing defenseman—or higher in a pinch—adds stability to a young Sharks roster featuring talents like Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa.
For the Blues, waiving Leddy freed up $4 million in cap space.
