Nick Leddy, 34, is entering the final year of his four-year, $16 million contract.
The Blues acquired Leddy in March 2022 from Detroit for a second-round pick, Oskar Sundqvist, and Jake Walman.
If Leddy is claimed, the claiming team will absorb his full contract, providing the Blues with $4 million in cap space.
If Leddy clears waivers, he could be sent to the AHL, but the Blues would only receive $1.15 million in cap relief.
A mutual contract termination is also possible, similar to Brandon Saad's situation, where Leddy could forfeit his $3 million salary to sign a cheaper deal elsewhere.
Why this matters: This move indicates the Blues' strategic shift in their defensive lineup, prioritizing younger players and cap flexibility. It also presents Leddy with a career crossroads.
The decision to waive Nick Leddy comes after the Blues acquired Logan Mailloux, creating a logjam on the defensive end. General Manager Doug Armstrong alluded to addressing this issue, and waiving Leddy is the first step.
Leddy's contract has a $4 million cap hit with $3 million in salary remaining. If another team claims Leddy, the Blues will gain significant cap relief. However, if he clears waivers, the Blues have the option to send him to their AHL affiliate in Springfield, though the cap relief would be minimal.
Another possible outcome is a mutual contract termination. Last season, Brandon Saad terminated his contract, forfeiting salary to sign elsewhere. Leddy could face a similar decision if he clears waivers and seeks a fresh start with another team at a lower cost.
With young defensemen like Cam Fowler and Philip Broberg emerging, along with Tyler Tucker, the Blues are likely aiming to reshape their defensive core.
Historical Context: Leddy was a key addition to the Blues in 2022, providing stability and experience on the blue line. However, injuries and the emergence of younger players have altered his role.
Impact: This move signifies the Blues' focus on internal growth and strategic cap management as they look to build a competitive team.
Q: What happens if Nick Leddy clears waivers?
If Leddy clears waivers, the Blues can assign him to the AHL, but they only receive $1.15 million in cap relief. He could also agree to a mutual contract termination.
Q: Why did the Blues waive Leddy?
The Blues waived Leddy to address a crowded blue line after acquiring Logan Mailloux and to potentially gain cap space.
Q: What are Leddy's options if he clears waivers?
Leddy could report to the AHL, negotiate a contract termination, or hope for a trade in the future.
The Blues are prioritizing cap flexibility and younger players on defense.
Nick Leddy's future with the Blues is uncertain, with possibilities including a trade, AHL assignment, or contract termination.
This move reflects the Blues' strategic shift as they aim to build a competitive team for the future.
The acquisition of Logan Mailloux has accelerated the need to make decisions on the blue line.
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