Nick Schmaltz Bio
Nick Schmaltz (born February 23, 1996) is an American professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Utah Mammoth of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has previously played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Arizona Coyotes. Schmaltz is known for his offensive skills and key contributions in crucial games, including leading North Dakota to an NCAA championship.
Early Life and Background
Nick Schmaltz was born in Madison, Wisconsin, and raised in Verona. His family home featured a basement roller hockey rink where he played with his older brother Jordan and sister Kylie. His father Mike owns fitness centers, and his mother Lisa is a radiologist. Schmaltz played youth hockey with the Chicago Mission, where he developed alongside future NHL player Christian Dvorak.
Following his brother, Schmaltz joined the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) as an affiliate player in the 2011–12 season. He helped the team win the Clark Cup that year. Over the next two seasons, he posted strong offensive numbers and was named to the USHL All-Rookie Team. His performance led to his selection by the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round, 20th overall, of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
Path to Hockey
Schmaltz played two seasons of college hockey with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks starting in 2014. In his freshman year, he earned National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) Rookie of the Month honors and was named to the NCHC All-Rookie Team. North Dakota won the NCHC regular season championship that year and reached the Frozen Four.
In his sophomore season, Schmaltz centered a line with Drake Caggiula and Brock Boeser, known as the CBS line. He was named NCHC Player of the Month in November and earned All-NCHC honorable mention. Schmaltz scored the game-winning goal in the Frozen Four semifinal and assisted in the national championship victory, securing North Dakota’s first NCAA title since 2000. After this success, he signed a professional contract with the Blackhawks.
Nick Schmaltz Career
Early Career (2016–2018)
Schmaltz made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2016–17 season. He scored his first NHL goal shortly after debuting but spent part of the season with the Rockford IceHogs in the American Hockey League. Returning to the Blackhawks, he improved his performance and finished the season with 28 points in 61 games. He made his playoff debut in 2017, although the Blackhawks were swept in the first round.
In the 2017–18 season, Schmaltz had a breakout year, highlighted by a three-point game early in the season and a scoring streak in December. He played on the Blackhawks’ second line alongside Ryan Hartman and Patrick Kane, forming a productive trio. Schmaltz finished the season with 52 points, demonstrating increased confidence and offensive ability despite the team missing the playoffs.
Arizona Coyotes Era (2018–2023)
In November 2018, Schmaltz was traded to the Arizona Coyotes. He quickly made an impact, scoring five points in his first five games. However, a knee injury ended his season prematurely. In March 2019, the Coyotes signed him to a seven-year contract extension. Schmaltz led the team in points during the 2019–20 season before the NHL paused due to the pandemic.
During the 2020–21 season, Schmaltz reunited with college linemate Drake Caggiula and played on a line known as the “Short Leash line” for its offensive output despite defensive concerns. He faced some injuries but remained a key contributor. In 2021–22, Schmaltz set franchise records, including a seven-point game and 11 points over two games, finishing with career highs in goals, assists, and points.
Utah Mammoth Era (2023–Present)
Following the suspension of the Arizona Coyotes franchise after the 2022–23 season, all hockey assets were transferred to the expansion Utah Mammoth. Schmaltz became part of the new team roster, continuing his NHL career with the Mammoth starting in 2023.
Playing Style and Strengths
Nick Schmaltz is known for his offensive creativity, playmaking skills, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. He excels at centering lines and forming effective partnerships with wingers. His vision and passing make him a valuable asset on the power play and in clutch moments.
Notable Events and Milestones
Schmaltz’s career highlights include scoring the game-winning goal in the 2016 NCAA Frozen Four semifinal and setting franchise records for the Arizona Coyotes with a seven-point game and 11 points in two consecutive games. His seven-year contract extension with the Coyotes reflects his importance to the team during his tenure.
Nick Schmaltz Career Wins
Throughout his career, Nick Schmaltz has established himself as a consistent offensive contributor at every level, from junior hockey to the NHL. His collegiate championship and NHL milestones underscore his impact on the ice.
College Highlights
At North Dakota, Schmaltz was instrumental in winning the 2016 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament. His clutch goal in the semifinal and assist in the championship game were pivotal in securing the title.
Professional Highlights
In the NHL, Schmaltz has recorded multiple multi-point games and set franchise records with the Arizona Coyotes. His development from a rookie to a leading scorer demonstrates his growth as a professional player.
Nick Schmaltz Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Nick comes from a family with strong athletic ties. His older brother Jordan Schmaltz is also a professional ice hockey player who has played in the NHL and Europe. Their sister Kylie played collegiate volleyball for the Kentucky Wildcats. The family environment fostered a competitive and supportive atmosphere for athletic development.
Personal Life
Details about Schmaltz’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He maintains a professional focus on his hockey career.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Nick Schmaltz continues to play for the Utah Mammoth following the franchise transition. His experience and offensive skills are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s development. The 2025 season presents opportunities for Schmaltz to build on his previous successes and establish leadership within the new team structure.
With a strong foundation from his years with the Coyotes and Blackhawks, Schmaltz’s role in the Mammoth will be pivotal in shaping the team’s competitive outlook. His chemistry with teammates and ability to perform in key moments remain assets for the franchise’s future.