Vegas Golden Knights trade goaltender Akira Schmid to the Florida Panthers

The Vegas Golden Knights have parted ways with goaltender Akira Schmid, sending the 26-year-old netminder to the Florida Panthers in exchange for a third-round selection in the 2028 NHL Entry Draft. The deal was announced on Monday, June 29, by Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon, marking a notable offseason move for both franchises as they reshape their rosters heading into the 2026-27 campaign.

The trade comes on the same day that Vegas extended a qualifying offer to Schmid, who is set to become a restricted free agent on July 1. Rather than retain the goalie and negotiate a new contract, the Golden Knights opted to flip him for future draft capital, a move that signals the organization's confidence in its goaltending depth moving forward.

Schmid's time in Vegas and what he brings to Florida

Schmid suited up for 39 games across two seasons with the Golden Knights, compiling an overall .898 save percentage and a 2.45 goals-against average during his tenure in the desert. His most productive stretch came during the 2025-26 season, when he appeared in a career-high 34 contests and posted a 16-10-6 record with a 2.59 GAA, an .893 save percentage, and two shutouts in 29 starts. Despite those regular-season contributions, Schmid did not see any action during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where Vegas ultimately fell to the Carolina Hurricanes in six games during the Final.

Originally selected by the New Jersey Devils in the fifth round of the 2018 NHL Draft at pick No. 136, Schmid has steadily built an NHL resume over his young career. Across 82 regular-season appearances with both the Devils and the Golden Knights, he owns a 32-28-10 record, a 2.66 GAA, a .898 save percentage, and three shutouts. Perhaps even more impressive is his postseason track record, where he has gone 4-4 with a 2.26 GAA, a .924 save percentage, and two shutouts in 10 playoff games. Those numbers suggest a goaltender who can elevate his performance when the stakes are at their highest.

Panthers General Manager Bill Zito expressed enthusiasm about adding Schmid to the organization. Zito praised the goaltender as a talented and athletic player who has demonstrated composure during high-pressure situations, making him a welcome addition to Florida's roster.

What this means for both teams

For the Golden Knights, the trade represents a calculated decision to prioritize future assets over retaining a backup goaltender who would have required a new contract. With the franchise entering its 10th season in 2026-27, Vegas continues to balance its win-now approach with smart long-term planning. The 2028 third-round pick gives the organization additional flexibility in upcoming drafts as it looks to replenish its prospect pipeline.

For the Panthers, acquiring Schmid addresses their goaltending depth with a proven NHL netminder who still has room to grow. At just 26 years old, Schmid is entering what should be the prime years of his career, and his playoff experience could prove valuable for a Panthers team that has been a consistent contender in recent seasons. His restricted free agent status also gives Florida control over his rights, allowing them to negotiate a deal that fits their salary cap structure.

The move is one of several transactions expected around the league as teams prepare for the July 1 free agency period. With training camps still months away, both the Golden Knights and Panthers will have plenty of time to evaluate how this trade fits into their broader plans for the season ahead.