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- Sharks Bolster Roster with Veteran Defensemen Dmitry Orlov and Nick Leddy
The San Jose sharks have significantly revamped their defensive lineup, securing veteran leadership by signing Dmitry orlov and claiming Nick Leddy. The moves, finalized on Thursday, come shortly after the opening of NHL free agency on Tuesday. Orlov inked a two-year deal with an annual average value (AAV) of $6.5 million,while Leddy was claimed off waivers from the St. Louis Blues.
Dmitry Orlov Joins Sharks on Two-Year Deal
Dmitry Orlov, a seasoned defenseman with 13 years of NHL experience, is set to bring his skills to San Jose. Throughout his career, orlov has played for the Washington Capitals, Boston Bruins, and Carolina Hurricanes. Last season with the Hurricanes, he recorded six goals and 22 assists in 76 games. Orlov’s career totals include 327 points in 867 NHL games.
Did You Know? Orlov won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018.
Sharks General Manager Mike Grier emphasized Orlov’s value to the team. “Dmitry is a strong, two-way defenseman who brings physicality and versatility on the ice,” Grier stated. “He has a wealth of NHL experience, both in the regular season and playoffs, and his Stanley Cup championship pedigree is a valuable addition to our team. We are happy to have him.”
Nick Leddy Claimed Off Waivers
Nick Leddy, a 34-year-old defenseman, also joins the Sharks, adding even more experience to the team. Leddy’s extensive 15-year NHL career includes stints with the New York Islanders, Chicago blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, and St. louis Blues. Last season, he played 31 games for the Blues, scoring two goals and three assists. Leddy has accumulated 416 points in 1,042 career NHL games.
Leddy’s contract carries a $4 million AAV for the 2025-26 season. NHL insider elliotte Friedman was the first to report the news of Leddy being claimed.
Financial Impact and Roster Composition
The additions of Orlov and Leddy represent a significant financial commitment for the Sharks. With Leddy’s $4 million AAV, the Sharks added $10.5 million in salary on Thursday, pushing them above the NHL’s $70.60 million salary floor. According to PuckPedia, the Sharks’ current total salary commitment is $72.55 million, the second-lowest in the NHL.
Pro Tip: NHL teams must remain above the salary floor to ensure competitive balance.
While the Sharks are focused on developing a young core, the team has been among the youngest in the NHL. the additions of Orlov and Leddy, both of whom have won the Stanley cup, provide crucial veteran leadership to guide the younger players.
| Player | Age | NHL experience | Stanley Cups | 2024-25 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dmitry Orlov | 33 | 13 years | 1 | 6 G,22 A (76 games) |
| Nick Leddy | 34 | 15 years | 1 | 2 G,3 A (31 games) |
What impact will Orlov and Leddy have on the Sharks’ defensive performance? How will their experience benefit the younger players on the team?
The Importance of Veteran Leadership in NHL teams
Veteran players play a crucial role in the advancement and success of NHL teams. Their experience,leadership,and knowledge of the game can significantly impact younger players. Veteran players ofen serve as mentors, guiding young players both on and off the ice. They can also provide stability and composure during high-pressure situations.
Teams with a strong veteran presence tend to perform better in the playoffs,as they are better equipped to handle the intensity and pressure of postseason hockey. The Stanley Cup wins of orlov and Leddy bring a winning mentality to the Sharks’ locker room.
Frequently Asked Questions About NHL Free Agency
What is NHL Free agency? NHL Free agency is the period each year when players whose contracts have expired are free to sign with any team in the league.
When does NHL Free Agency begin? NHL Free agency typically begins on July 1st.
What is a salary floor? The salary floor is the minimum amount that each NHL team must spend on player salaries. This is to ensure that all teams are competitive and invest in their rosters.
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