Major news rocks the hockey world: Veteran defenseman Nick Leddy has been placed on waivers by the San Jose Sharks. This move has sent ripples through the NHL, and here's what you need to know.
Leddy, at 34 years old, has seen limited ice time this season, playing in only 19 games for the Sharks. Initially acquired via waivers from the St. Louis Blues, the veteran was brought in to bolster a struggling Sharks' defense. While his presence in the locker room has been valued, his on-ice performance hasn't quite matched expectations. He's managed a mere four assists this season, with his average time on ice (TOI) at 17:30, the lowest since the 2013-14 season.
Now, the big question: what's next for Leddy? He has the option to accept an assignment to the AHL, but as a seasoned NHL player, he could also request the Sharks terminate his contract, making him a free agent.
And this is the part most people miss... A similar situation unfolded last season with Brandon Saad, who was placed on waivers by the Blues and subsequently had his contract terminated, leading to him signing with the Vegas Golden Knights. The current waiver move for Leddy doesn't have a clear purpose attached to it, such as an AHL assignment or a mutual contract termination.
Leddy's contract is in its final year of a four-year, $16 million deal ($4 million AAV).
The Sharks have been carrying nine defensemen for much of the season, which has limited their roster flexibility. With Vincent Desharnais and Shakir Mukhamadullin nearing a return, the team needed to make a decision. Leddy appears to be the odd man out. There's also a possibility that Philipp Kurashev could join their team in Florida.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could this be the end of Leddy's NHL career? Or will another team take a chance on the experienced defenseman? What do you think about the Sharks' decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!**
