The Utah Mammoth have officially signed defenseman Nate Schmidt to a three-year contract, as announced on Tuesday. The deal, which carries a cap hit of $3.5 million per year, brings Schmidt’s veteran presence to the Mammoth as they aim for their first-ever playoff berth.
At 33 years old, Schmidt had a standout season with the Florida Panthers, recording five goals and 19 points while averaging over 16 minutes of ice time in 80 regular-season games. His performance during the playoffs was particularly remarkable; in 23 games, he contributed three goals and 12 points as the Panthers made their way to a second consecutive Stanley Cup championship. Schmidt played a crucial role on the team’s secondary power-play unit, showcasing his ability to elevate his game under pressure.
Schmidt’s career path reflects a resilient journey through the NHL. After going undrafted, he made his debut with the Washington Capitals in the 2013-14 season, following a successful college career with the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the Vegas Golden Knights, where he became known for consistently scoring 30 points in his first three seasons. His experience includes stints with the Vancouver Canucks and Winnipeg Jets before landing with the Panthers and now the Mammoth.
Throughout his 12 NHL seasons, Schmidt has played in 741 games, netting 52 goals and totaling 239 points. His playoff experience is equally impressive, with 10 goals and 40 points accumulated in 99 postseason contests.
By signing Schmidt, the Utah Mammoth not only add depth to their defense but also bring in a player with a wealth of playoff experience, which could be invaluable as they pursue their goal of reaching the postseason. Schmidt’s leadership and skill set are expected to play a pivotal role in driving the team’s ambitions in the upcoming seasons.