Nick Leddy (‘09) is an NHL defenseman for the San Jose Sharks. As a high schooler, Leddy was a standout player, declining an invitation to join the USA Hockey National Team Development Program after his junior year in order to continue playing for Eden Prairie. He led Eden Prairie High School to its very first Class AA boys’ hockey state championship in 2009. That same year, he was named Minnesota Mr. Hockey, which recognized him as the top player in the state.

Following graduation, Leddy was selected in the first round of the 2009 NHL Draft by the Minnesota Wild. The following year, he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks. Before beginning his professional career, however, Leddy played one season of hockey for the University of Minnesota, where he was named the Golden Gophers Rookie of the Year.

In 2010, Leddy made his NHL debut for the Blackhawks, and in 2011, he helped the United States place third at the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Leddy played for the Chicago Blackhawks through the 2013-14 season, assisting the team in wining the Stanley Cup in 2013. He went on to play for the New York Islanders (2014–2021), the Detroit Red Wings (2021–2022), the St. Louis Blues (2022-2025) and now plays for the San Jose Sharks.

Leddy has played more than 1,000 NHL games and earned more than 400 career points.

Photo Credit: San Jose Sharks