The San Jose Sharks are making significant moves to bolster their defensive lineup, recently claiming Nick Leddy off waivers and signing Dmitry Orlov. With at least eight defensemen under contract, the Sharks now feature Mario Ferraro, who can play both sides. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers secured Christian Dvorak on a one-year deal, despite the player having multiple offers for longer contracts. The Flyers intend to keep Dvorak unless their playoff chances dwindle at the trade deadline.

In other news, the Nashville Predators are focused on enhancing their blue line. GM Barry Trotz has added size with Nic Hague and Nick Perbix but admits the team remains light on center options, leaving pressure on wingers to produce more offense. He emphasizes the need for gradual rebuilding to compete effectively.

Dmitry Orlov has secured a two-year, $13 million deal with the San Jose Sharks, solidifying their blue line with a strong two-way defenseman. Orlov, 33, comes off a season with the Carolina Hurricanes where he recorded 28 points in 76 regular-season games. Sharks GM Mike Grier praised Orlov for his physicality, versatility, and championship experience from his time with the Washington Capitals.

Additionally, the Sharks claimed Nick Leddy off waivers from the St. Louis Blues, adding another veteran presence to their defense. Leddy brings experience and a strong playoff resume, having previously won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks. Grier emphasized the importance of balancing veteran presence with young players, including top prospect Sam Dickinson, in a rebuilding Sharks squad.

Dmitry Orlov has signed with the San Jose Sharks, bolstering their defensive lineup in a significant move during free agency. The two-year contract, valued at $13 million, adds a veteran presence to a team that needed to hit the salary floor following injuries affecting key players like captain Logan Couture. Orlov, a Stanley Cup champion with the Washington Capitals, brings experience from his recent tenure in Carolina. The Sharks have also picked up Nick Leddy through waivers, further strengthening their blue line alongside John Klingberg.

San Jose's general manager Mike Grier has indicated a strategic approach to this offseason, focusing on filling their roster with experienced players while managing salary cap constraints. The addition of Orlov and other veterans like Klingberg presents an interesting dynamic as the Sharks transition into a new era, aiming to achieve a balance between experience and youth development.

The St. Louis Blues are preparing to part ways with veteran defenseman Nick Leddy, who has been placed on waivers. The 34-year-old is entering the final season of a contract with a $4 million cap hit, though he will earn $3 million in salary this year. Leddy, a first-round pick in 2009 who has played for several teams including the Blackhawks and Islanders, has struggled with injuries, limiting him to just 31 games last season where he managed two goals and three assists.

The Blues initially sought a trade for Leddy, but no deal materialized. If he clears waivers, Leddy could either accept an AHL assignment or mutually terminate his contract to become a free agent. This situation marks a significant shift for the franchise as they look to reshape their roster.

The Winnipeg Jets are gearing up for an important offseason as they aim to re-sign defenseman Neal Pionk, who has expressed a desire to stay in the city. With one year left on Luke Schenn's contract at $2.75 million, the Jets are also keen to retain him. While Pionk's defensive performance raises some doubt, his chemistry with Dylan Samberg has been beneficial, strengthening his case for a new deal. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues face crucial decisions regarding veterans Nick Leddy and Justin Faulk, as they navigate potential roster changes and seek to add more scoring depth.

The Blues are poised to assess their prospects, including Zack Bolduc and Jimmy Snuggerud, before making any major moves. Decisions surrounding Brayden Schenn's no-trade clause and the financial feasibility of acquiring players like Mitch Marner also loom large. Additionally, players like Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway are projected to seek significant long-term extensions. The offseason will be pivotal for both franchises as they aim to enhance their respective rosters.