The Florida Panthers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers]have two big pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs), Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad, who can hit the market on July 1. However, they also have some other solid players who can become UFAs at the start of next month, including defenseman Nate Schmidt. After being bought out by the Winnipeg Jets last off-season, Schmidt was very good for the Panthers this year, but especially during the playoffs. Because of this, he should be a popular target if he ends up testing the market this summer. Due to this, let's look at three teams who could look to sign Schmidt if he becomes a free agent on July 1. COLORADO AVALANCHE The Avalanche could be on the hunt for more defensive depth this off-season. This is especially the case if they end up losing pending UFA defenseman Ryan Lindgren. Thus, they could be a team to keep an eye on when it comes to Schmidt. When looking at the Avalanche's roster, Schmidt could be a great fit on their third pairing. Furthermore, with the Avalanche being contenders, they certainly could be interested in a defenseman with 99 career playoff games and a Stanley Cup on their resume, like Schmidt. NEW YORK RANGERS The Rangers could be another team to watch when it comes to Schmidt. When looking at their defensive group, it is clear that they could use some help on their left side. Thus, it would make sense for them to pursue Schmidt if he hits the market. If the Rangers signed Schmidt, he would give them another solid veteran on their blueline to help mentor their younger players. In addition, he would be a clear upgrade to their bottom pairing, which is a need for a Rangers club looking to have a bounce-back season in 2025-26. CAROLINA HURRICANES The Hurricanes could also be a good landing spot for Schmidt. The Hurricanes have two notable pending UFA defensemen in Brent Burns and Dmitry Orlov, so they could end up looking for new blueliners this off-season. On a short-term deal, Schmidt could make a lot of sense for them. Schmidt would provide the Hurricanes with another proven defenseman if signed, which is never a bad thing for a team to have. LATEST STORIES FROM THE HOCKEY NEWS - FLORIDA Florida Panthers announce 2025 Development Camp roster, schedule [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/latest-news/florida-panthers-announce-2025-development-camp-roster-schedule] NHL Rumors: Bruins & Maple Leafs Linked To Panthers Star [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/latest-news/nhl-rumors-bruins-maple-leafs-linked-to-panthers-star] Panthers GM Bill Zito speaks on team's 2025 NHL Draft selections [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/latest-news/panthers-gm-bill-zito-speaks-on-team-s-2025-nhl-draft-selections] Former Panthers Forward Signs Contract With New Team [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/latest-news/former-panthers-forward-signs-contract-with-new-team] Sam Bennett discusses signing extension with Panthers: 'Being in South Florida has completely changed my life' [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/players/sam-bennett-discusses-signing-extension-with-panthers-being-in-south-florida-has-completely-changed-my-life] Photo Credit: © Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
