Winnipeg Jets Buying Out Nate Schmidt

The Winnipeg Jets have placed defenseman Nate Schmidt on waivers for the purpose of a buyout.

Nate Schmidt (WPG) has been placed on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) June 30, 2024

Schmidt, 32, was set to enter the final season of his contract with a $5.95 million cap hit. However, with this decision by the Jets, they will be moving on from Schmidt and will likely look to find a cheaper option for their bottom pairing as his replacement.

With this move, Schmidt will a carry a $2.72 million cap hit for the Jets in 2024-25 season, which equals to $3.23 million of savings for the club. However, the Jets will now have a $1.62 million cap charge for the 2025-26 season for completing this buy out.

Schmidt, 32, appeared in 63 games this past season with the Jets, where he had two goals to go along with 14 points and a plus-10 rating. He then followed that up by playing in three postseason games, recording one goal and a notable minus-5 rating.

Schmidt should get some interest in free agency, as he has four seasons with at least 30 points and plenty of overall experience. On an affordable short-term deal, he would be a nice addition to an NHL club looking to add more overall depth to their blueline.

We will need to wait and see where Schmidt ends up landing from here.