In a surprising turn of events, Akira Schmid has officially inked a two-year contract with the prestigious Vegas Golden Knights, signaling a new chapter in the young goaltender’s career. The deal, boasting a cap hit of $875,000 in both seasons, underscores the team’s confidence in his abilities between the pipes.
Fans may remember Schmid’s stellar performance that helped propel the Devils to a first-round victory against the New York Rangers a couple of years back. However, this season proved to be a different story as he found himself entangled in a crowded goaltender situation with the Devils. The acquisition of Jake Allen and Jacob Markstrom only compounded matters, leaving Schmid on the outside looking in.
With limited playing time on the horizon, it became clear that Schmid needed a change of scenery. The Golden Knights emerged as a perfect landing spot, offering him the opportunity to compete for the coveted backup goalie position behind the talented Adin Hill. Adding to the intrigue, the team also brought in Ilya Samsonov, who made waves with a late-season surge with the Toronto Maple Leafs and seized the starter’s mantle for the playoffs.
What sets Schmid’s contract apart is its dual nature as a two-year, one-way deal. This means he will receive an NHL salary even if he is assigned to the minors, a rare occurrence that underscores the team’s commitment to his development. While teams typically strive to avoid demoting players on one-way contracts, it remains a possibility in Schmid’s case.
The upcoming training camp and preseason promise an intense battle between Schmid and Samsonov for the backup spot. Whoever falls short may find themselves guarding the net for the Golden Knights’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights, in what will undoubtedly be a pivotal season for both netminders.
As the hockey world eagerly anticipates the outcome of this high-stakes matchup, one thing is certain – Akira Schmid’s journey with the Vegas Golden Knights is bound to be a captivating one, filled with twists, turns, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence on the ice.
(Photo by Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports)
