Career Highlights

Michael Leighton is a retired professional hockey goaltender, known for his time in both the NHL and the AHL. Leighton was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 6th round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. His NHL career spanned over a decade, with Leighton playing for the Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Philadelphia Flyers, and Carolina Hurricanes. Leighton made a name for himself in the AHL, where he became one of the most decorated goaltenders in league history. With a career that included over 500 AHL games, Leighton earned the distinction of holding the league's all-time record for shutouts (50) and winning the Aldege "Baz" Bastien Memorial Award as the AHL’s best goaltender in 2008.

Leighton's most memorable NHL moments came in the 2010 postseason with the Philadelphia Flyers, when he helped lead the team to the Stanley Cup Final after stepping in as the starting goalie during the playoffs. He recorded three shutouts in the Eastern Conference Final, tying an NHL record for the most shutouts in a single playoff series, though the Flyers ultimately lost in the Cup Final to the Chicago Blackhawks. After retiring from playing in 2019.

Leighton transitioned to coaching and was hired by the Detroit Red Wings in 2025 as a goaltending coach, marking his return to the NHL in a developmental role. His impact on the game continues, both as a former player and as a mentor to future generations of goaltenders.

Cleary Hockey Program

We’re excited and honored to welcome Michael Leighton to the Cleary Hockey Program Goalie Camp, where his elite experience, professionalism, and passion for the position will be an incredible asset to every goaltender attending. His guidance will help elevate the skills, mindset, and confidence of goalies at every level, and we look forward to having him as part of the Cleary Hockey family.