1000-Game NHL Veteran Nick Leddy Claimed Off Waivers

In the midst of a chaotic start to NHL free agency, the St. Louis Blues made a surprise move on Wednesday, choosing to officially waive veteran defenseman Nick Leddy after a disappointing and injury riddled 2024/25 campaign.

The 1,000 game NHL veteran has slowed down significantly in recent years, and with the additions of Cam Fowler, Philip Broberg and Logan Mailloux essentially rendering his role with the team obsolete after four seasons.

However, there appears to be a belief that he can still be an effective player in the NHL, with the San Jose Sharks reportedly claiming him on Thursday, according to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman.

Last season, the 34-year old played in just 31 games, posting 2 goals and 5 points in that time, but for a young Sharks team that needs guidance and veteran leadership around their young core, especially on the blue line, this is a great depth pickup for them.

This move comes not long after the team signed Dmitry Orlov to a two-year deal in free agency, and with the team already signing John Klingberg, it's safe to say that this team has upgraded the blue line in a big way.

It's unclear if the Sharks will be looking to play Leddy in a significant role or whether he'll simply be a depth addition for them, but at the end of the day, it's a good, cheap addition for the Sharks, and now time will tell if he can still be effective at the NHL level.