SAN JOSE - Nick Leddy's journey in the NHL has taken another twist as he finds himself back with the San Jose Sharks, yet his next move remains uncertain. Whether it's a return to the AHL, a trade, or staying with the Sharks, Leddy's future is up in the air.
Back in practice after being recalled from the Barracuda, Leddy, a seasoned 16-year NHL veteran and Stanley Cup champion, is embracing the uncertainty with a focus on what he can control. “You never know what will happen,” Leddy shared, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the game.
After being claimed by San Jose in July following his release by the St. Louis Blues, Leddy's season has been anything but smooth. Initially a key player on the Sharks' defense, averaging nearly 21 minutes per game, an upper-body injury against the Rangers sidelined him in October.
His return in November was challenging, as he struggled to secure a spot, playing only 12 of 31 games before being waived on Jan. 18. “Injuries are kind of death,” Leddy admitted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and learning from each experience.
Assigned to the Barracuda the next day, Leddy didn't play a game there, a decision he made with Sharks GM Mike Grier. Considering a potential return to the AHL, Leddy is still weighing his options. “I just want to play hockey,” he said, leaving the door open for future discussions with Grier.
Complicating Leddy's situation is the Sharks' crowded blue line, with nine defensemen vying for spots and younger players getting opportunities. “I’ve been around long enough to see the writing on the wall,” Leddy noted, acknowledging the business side of the sport.
Currently, the Sharks don't urgently need to adjust their 23-man roster. With Filip Bystedt available for reassignment and Ty Dellandrea still recovering from injury, the team has some flexibility. Post-March 6 trade deadline, roster expansion is possible, offering more options for Leddy, whose $4 million cap hit fits within the Sharks' projected $10.6 million cap space.
The potential trade of pending unrestricted free agents like Mario Ferraro, Timothy Liljegren, Vincent Desharnais, or John Klingberg could also create opportunities for Leddy's return. Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky highlighted the fluid nature of the league, urging Leddy to stay ready.
In a recent roster move, the Sharks and Jeff Skinner mutually parted ways, freeing Skinner to explore other opportunities. Leddy, meanwhile, remains focused on contributing to the Sharks and pursuing playoff aspirations. While his contract might be hefty for a trade, a renegotiated deal could be feasible.
Leddy is determined to prove he still belongs at the top level, with an impressive 420 points in 1,061 NHL games under his belt. “I would love to play in the NHL, that’s the ultimate goal,” Leddy affirmed, keeping his sights set on the league he knows so well.