For a lot of Utah Mammoth fans, Nate Schmidt might be best known as the veteran defenseman who signed for under $1 million with the Florida Panthers and went on to win the Stanley Cup. But that’s not the whole story. Sure, he earned that deal, but Schmidt’s had a pretty solid NHL career. And if he can tap into that level again in Utah, this could quietly become one of the best signings of the summer.
So, let’s look at Schmidt’s career before his time with the Panthers.
His NHL journey started in 2013-14 with the Washington Capitals, where he spent four seasons. He posted 43 points in 200 games and earned more ice time as he gained the coaching staff's trust.
After that, he was selected by the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2017 expansion draft. He played three seasons there and was a big part of the team’s early success. In 196 games, he recorded 97 points before being traded to the Vancouver Canucks. That stop was short, just 54 games with 15 points.
He then joined the Winnipeg Jets, where he became more of a household name. Over three seasons, he played in 211 games and put up 65 points. After the Jets bought him out following last season, he signed a cheap deal in Florida and chipped in 19 points in 80 games.
If he can find his stride again in Utah, it’s not unrealistic to expect 25 to 35 points. He could quickly become one of the most trusted defensemen on the roster. For general manager Bill Armstrong, there’s real upside here. Even at 34, Schmidt has the potential to be one of the most liked players on the blue line over the next three years.
