Leddy sprouts into state's Mr. Hockey

He wasn't viewed as big enough only a few years ago, but the Eden Prairie defenseman grew into a state champion.

By DAVID La VAQUE, Star Tribune

Last update: March 16, 2009 - 12:32 AM

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After being chosen Mr. Hockey on Sunday, Eden Prairie defenseman Nick Leddy now stands alone among his peers as the best player in the state.

Not long ago, Leddy nearly got lost in the crowd. He measured just 5-4 as a bantam and did not sprout until ninth grade.

"He had the beautiful hands, great vision and quick feet," Eagles coach Lee Smith said. "But it was always a matter of, 'Let's hope he grows.' "

Leddy now stands about 6-0, joking he can be in the top row for team pictures. And he put on 15 pounds of muscle between his junior and senior seasons without losing a step. With greater explosiveness and durability, Leddy carried the Eagles to their first Class 2A state championship on Saturday.

He finished with a goal and an assist in Eden Prairie's 3-0 victory against Moorhead, and his all-around play drew raves.

"I was surprised with his speed," Spuds coach Dave Morinville said Saturday. "He kept running down our fastest skaters."

Hockey dignitaries chased Leddy down after Sunday's ceremony at the St. Paul RiverCentre. Former Gophers All-America defenseman and 1994 Mr. hockey winner Mike Crowley introduced himself to Leddy, who is headed to Minnesota in the fall.

"I think he has the skills and the confidence to step in with the Gophers and play in all situations," Smith said.

Leddy was chosen Mr. Hockey from a group of 10 finalists. The other finalists were Dan DeLisle (Totino-Grace), Marshall Everson (Edina), Ben Hanowski (Little Falls), Tyler Lapic (New Prague), Anders Lee (Edina), Danny Mattson (Holy Angels), Zach Palmquist (South St. Paul), Tyler Pitlick (Centennial) and Max Tardy (Duluth East).

Bloomington Jefferson's Casey O'Connor won the Frank Brimsek Award as the top goaltender.