The San Jose Sharks have recalled defenseman Nick Leddy and forward Filip Bystedt from their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, ahead of upcoming activities. Despite the move, neither player is currently expected to participate in the Sharks’ game lineup next week, highlighting a tentative approach to their roles within the NHL team.
Bystedt’s Recall Primarily for Practice, Injury Limits Playtime
Sheng Peng from San Jose Hockey Now clarified that Bystedt’s recall is intended mainly for him to join Sharks’ practices, not games, as he is managing an upper-body injury preventing him from playing for the Barracuda as well. The timeline for Leddy’s presence with the Sharks remains uncertain at this stage.
Progress and Performance Point to Bystedt’s Potential NHL Role
Filip Bystedt, now in his third North American professional season after being chosen 27th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft by the Sharks, has shown consistent development. His early 2023-24 season form has been impressive, with 13 goals and 36 points in 40 games, placing him as the leading scorer for the Barracuda. This continued improvement suggests he may soon solidify a permanent spot on the Sharks’ roster.
Leddy Faces a Challenging Season and Possible Career End
Nick Leddy, a 34-year-old veteran defenseman, has struggled through his current season after being waived and reassigned to the AHL in mid-January without seeing game action for the Barracuda. With just four assists over 19 games and an average ice time of 17:30 per game, Leddy appears to be in his final NHL season as he is in the last year of a four-year, $16 million contract currently held with the St. Louis Blues.
Implications for the Sharks’ Roster and Future
The Sharks’ recall of Leddy and Bystedt reflects a cautious approach amid ongoing team adjustments and player development challenges. While Bystedt’s rising performance offers hope for the franchise’s future offensive potential, Leddy’s uncertain status underscores the transitional nature of this period for the team’s defense lineup. Observers will be watching closely to see how these players’ roles evolve in the weeks ahead.
The #SJSharks have recalled F Filip Bystedt and D Nick Leddy from the @sjbarracuda.
— San Jose Sharks PR (@SanJoseSharksPR) February 18, 2026
Warsofsky said the intention isn't for Bystedt to play next week for #SJSharks, they just need enough practice players, and he wasn't going to play for the Cuda tonight with his upper-body injury
— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) February 18, 2026
