The offensive-minded d-man is expected to return to his home country of Germany after five years in North America.
German blueliner and standout for the San Jose organization Leon Gawanke is aiming to leave North America to return to his home country.
A statement last night from Sharks Assistant General Manager Joe Will read, “Leon Gawanke formally approached us with his desire to return home and play in Germany. The Sharks agreed to his wishes and initiated the process of terminating his NHL contract today. We wish Leon all the best and thank him for his contributions on and off the ice with the Sharks and Barracuda organizations.”
Gawanke, a fifth-round pick of the Winnipeg Jets in 2017, put up 26 points in 48 games in his first year of pro hockey in North America with the Manitoba Moose.
Through 159 games with the Moose over the next three seasons, the 24-year-old would put up 88 points.
He joined the Sharks organization for the 2023-24 season where he banked a healthy eight goals and 27 points in 38 games. He did not suit up for a National Hockey League game with the Sharks or Jets.
It is expected that Gawanke will play with Adler Mannheim of the DEL.