First rounder and Stanley Cup champion Nick Leddy lands on waivers

On Wednesday, it was confirmed that the St. Louis Blues have place defenseman Nick Leddy on waivers.

This is not in order to buy him out since the buyout window is closed. This move is for the purpose of assignment to the Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL).

The past season was hard on Leddy, who missed 49 games after suffering an injury on October 22. Upon his return on February 4, he played out the remainder of the season and into the playoffs. However, his return did not have the expected impact on St. Louis.

Leddy had two goals and three assists for five points in 31 games. He now has a year left at $4 M. According to insider Frank Seravalli, the Blues and Leddy worked together and attempted to find a trade partner for a fresh start.

“Leddy and the Blues had been working together to find a trade partner where he’d get more opportunity.

“Trade hasn’t materialized so taking a swing on waivers. Effortless skater.”

Leddy was selected in the first round, 16th overall by the Minnesota Wild back in 2009. He never played for the Wild as he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010 and spent two seasons with the club. He won a Stanley Cup with the Hawks in 2013. He then played for the New York Islanders until 2021, with a short stop with the Detroit Red Wings and finally in St. Louis.

Rival teams have until tomorrow’s deadline to claim Leddy off waivers. We will know more than about his future in the NHL.