2 Teams Who Should Trade For Nate Schmidt

 

After reportedly requesting a trade, it is quite possible that Nate Schmidt will be on a new team next season. Although he had his struggles with the Canucks, he is still a top-four defenseman who is able to play on either side. He has a $5.95 million cap hit over the next four seasons, so he is far from cheap. Yet, if he can contribute the way he did during his time with the Golden Knights, he is absolutely worth the gamble. 

It is important to note that Schmidt has a 10 team no-trade clause, but that does leave the Canucks with a lot of room to work with. Also, if Schmidt truly wants out of Vancouver, it shouldn't take much to convince him to go elsewhere. 

These two teams should try to trade for the 29-year-old defenseman. 

Minnesota Wild: The Minnesota Wild will lose Matthew Dumba to the Kraken if they choose to protect only three defensemen for the Expansion Draft. If this ends up happening, the Wild should trade for Schmidt. He can instantly replace Dumba in the lineup and makes roughly the same amount as him. Schmidt has the ability to produce at a similar level to Dumba, too. Keep in mind, Schmidt is a Minnesota native and even played his college hockey at the University of Minnesota. 

Philadelphia Flyers: The Philadelphia Flyers clearly need some help when it comes to their defense. Although Schmidt is lefty, he primarily plays on the right side. This is where the Flyers are at their weakest, so they may be willing to take on Schmidt's contract. The Flyers are interested in Seth Jones as well, but if they are able to trade Voracek's big contract, they can bring both defensemen in. That would make their top-four significantly better.

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