Nate Schmidt's arrival in Florida came with a mix of excitement and apprehension as he joined the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers. Tasked with replacing key defensemen Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Brandon Montour, Schmidt initially struggled to find his place within a team that had just achieved the ultimate success. However, after several months of adjustment, he has emerged as a pivotal contributor on the blue line, helping the Panthers push towards another Cup victory.

In the Stanley Cup Final, his performance has been notable: two assists in Game 1 and another two in Game 2, paired with high analytics ratings showcasing his impact. Coach Paul Maurice emphasized Schmidt's revival of playing with joy, displaying the same dynamism that characterized his early career. Schmidt's role on the team extends beyond his contributions on the ice; his positive personality has fostered team camaraderie, especially in the high-pressure atmosphere of the playoffs.