Cleghorn's journey began with the Montreal Wanderers, a prestigious club. His exceptional skating ability and fierce competitiveness made him a standout player. After a fire ravaged the Montreal club's skating home, Sprague's rights were transferred to the Ottawa Senators. The Sens won the Stanley Cup in 1919, and the following season, the NHL attempted parity by dispersing Cleghorn to the Hamilton Tigers.

Refusing to report with the Tigers, Ottawa asked the league to allow Sprague to return to their fold. Other owners bached at the idea, and eventually, Cleghorn signed with the Toronto St. Patricks. He helped them earn a playoff spot, but Toronto lost their series and dismissed Cleghorn. Sprague signed with Ottawa just in time to help them win Lord Stanley's Cup in 1921.

The league again attempted to transfer Cleghorn to Hamilton in 1921, but he again refused to report. Just before the 1921–22 NHL season started, Hamilton traded him to the Montreal Canadiens. Cleghorn played four seasons there before finishing up his career in Boston,

Sprague Cleghorn's name may not be as widely recognized as some of hockey's later superstars, but his contributions are undeniable. He was a pioneer who helped shape the game into what it is today, inspiring future generations with his leadership, skill, and unwavering passion for hockey.