The Utah Mammoth have officially signed defenseman Nate Schmidt to a three-year deal, with an average annual value of $3.5 million, following his key role in winning the 2025 Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers. This significant acquisition was announced shortly after Schmidt’s championship victory, marking a major addition to the Mammoth’s roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Team Leadership Praises Schmidt’s Experience and Role
Chris Armstrong, president of hockey operations for the Utah Mammoth, expressed enthusiasm about Schmidt’s arrival, emphasizing his veteran playoff experience as a major asset. Armstrong highlighted how Schmidt’s recent success with the Panthers complements the Mammoth’s veteran core, expecting him to be instrumental in advancing the team’s goals. General manager Bill Armstrong echoed this sentiment, describing Schmidt as an efficient and hardworking defenseman who would serve as a role model for younger players. He called Schmidt a “warrior” on the ice, underscoring his important contribution to Florida’s championship run.
“We are excited that Nate and his wife, Allie, have chosen Utah.”
—Chris Armstrong, President of Hockey Operations
“Nate is an efficient defenseman and we are very pleased to have him join the organization.”
—Bill Armstrong, General Manager
“He’s a warrior who played a key role in Florida’s Stanley Cup run and we are thrilled to have him join our team.”
—Bill Armstrong, General Manager
Schmidt’s Proven Performance with Florida Panthers
During the 2024-25 NHL season, Schmidt played in 80 regular-season games for the Florida Panthers, tallying five goals and 14 assists for 19 points, alongside 30 penalty minutes. Among the team’s defensemen, he ranked third in goals, fourth in points, and tied for third in blocked shots with 71. In the playoffs, Schmidt added three goals and nine assists over 23 games, matching the highest assist total by any Florida blueliner, ultimately contributing significantly to the Panthers’ consecutive Stanley Cup championship.
Comprehensive NHL and Playoff Experience
At 33 years old, Schmidt’s professional career spans 741 NHL games, having played for five teams: the Florida Panthers, Winnipeg Jets, Vancouver Canucks, Vegas Golden Knights, and Washington Capitals since 2013-14. His NHL career totals include 52 goals and 187 assists for 239 points, with 152 penalty minutes. Notably, Schmidt set personal bests in the 2017-18 season with 31 assists and 36 points in 76 games for Vegas and netted a career-high nine goals the following year. He has also contributed across 99 playoff games, amassing 40 points and 20 penalty minutes.
Development and Early Career Highlights
Before establishing himself in the NHL, Schmidt played 65 games in the American Hockey League with the Hershey Bears, recording six goals and 20 assists. During his collegiate years at the University of Minnesota from 2010 to 2013, Schmidt was recognized for his strong defensive play, earning a spot on the WCHA First All-Star Team and NCAA West Second All-American Team in his final season. His development continued earlier with the Fargo Force in the USHL, where he made the All-Rookie Team after contributing 14 goals and 23 assists in 57 games.
International Representation and Future Expectations with Utah Mammoth
Schmidt has also represented the United States internationally, notably at the 2022 IIHF World Championship, where he led American defensemen in goals and points. His extensive background in high-pressure tournaments emphasizes his value to the Utah Mammoth, who are optimistic about his ability to strengthen their defensive lineup. This signing reflects the team’s commitment to enhancing performance with proven talent, positioning the Mammoth to be more competitive in forthcoming seasons.