Former Canuck Nate Schmidt reveals why he signed with the Panthers

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Cooper Godin
July 14, 2024 (1:33 PM)

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Nate Schmidt during his tenure with the Winnipeg Jets.

Photo credit: Sportsnet

Former Vancouver Canucks defenceman Nate Schmidt shares why he signed with the Florida Panthers after having his contract bought out by the Winnipeg Jets.

One day before the National Hockey League's free agent window opened up, the Winnipeg Jets made the decision to buy out the final year of Nate Schmidt's contract. Schmidt was placed on unconditional waivers to have the buyout completed and cleared on Monday afternoon, making him an unrestricted free agent.

After becoming an unrestricted free agent on Canada Day, it didn't take long for Schmidt to find a new home as just two days later, he signed a one-year contract with the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.

In a recent interview, Schmidt was asked why he chose to sign with the Florida Panthers and shared that reconnecting with his former head coach Paul Maurice and chasing a Stanley Cup were two of the biggest reasons.

"My biggest ups when I was in Winnipeg was when I was under Paul Maurice," Schmidt said Wednesday at Da Beauty League, a 4-on-4 summer league featuring collegiate and NHL players with ties to Minnesota. "And honestly, I just felt like he was somebody who understood my game and knows how to unlock the most out of his guys. I felt that comfort level, and with Paul and this team, I'm just chasing a ring. That's all I want. I just want to win. I want to be a part of it, too."

Schmidt, 32, appeared in 63 games for the Winnipeg Jets last season where he put up 14 points (two goals, 12 assists), 16 penalty minutes and was a plus-ten. He went on to add one goal in three games during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Previously on CanucksDaily

Concerning an update on Boeser's future in Vancouver: Extension not a priority

Bruins' prospect kicked out of school: His career paused and jeopardized?

Massive trade offer for Rutger McGroarty leaks: It's denied

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