Nick Schmaltz Bio
Nick Schmaltz (born February 23, 1996) is an American professional ice hockey player who is a forward for the Utah Mammoth of the National Hockey League (NHL). He previously played for the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL, as well as the Arizona Coyotes until the team suspended operations and all hockey assets were transferred to the expansion Utah Mammoth. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, and raised in Verona, Schmaltz grew up playing hockey in his basement with his brother Jordan and sister Kylie. He followed his brother into playing junior ice hockey for the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League. After two full seasons in Green Bay, Schmaltz was selected in the first round, 20th overall, by the Blackhawks in the 2014 NHL entry draft. He went on to play two seasons of college ice hockey with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks. During his second season, North Dakota won the 2016 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament.
Early Life and Background
Nick Schmaltz was born on February 23, 1996, in Madison, Wisconsin. His father, Mike, owns a series of fitness centers, while his mother, Lisa, is a radiologist for the UW Health University Hospital. The Schmaltz family home in Verona had a makeshift roller hockey rink in the basement, where Nick played with his older brother Jordan and younger sister Kylie. He played four seasons of organized hockey with the Chicago Mission of the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League, where he developed a close friendship with future NHL player Christian Dvorak. Schmaltz centered an offensive line with Dvorak and William Nylander, showcasing his talent early on. Following in his brother’s footsteps, Schmaltz joined the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) as an affiliate player for the final 11 games of the 2011–12 regular season, contributing to the team’s success.
Path to Hockey
During the 2012–13 season, Schmaltz recorded 18 goals and 52 points in 64 games, earning a spot on the USHL All-Rookie Team. The following season, he posted 18 goals and 63 points in 55 games, catching the attention of NHL scouts. At the end of the 2013–14 USHL season, the Chicago Blackhawks selected Schmaltz in the first round, 20th overall, of the 2014 NHL entry draft. He then transitioned to college ice hockey with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, where he had a standout freshman season, leading all freshmen in scoring. Schmaltz’s performance helped North Dakota secure the NCHC regular-season championship and a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Nick Schmaltz Career
Early Career (2016–2018)
Nick Schmaltz made his NHL debut in the first game of the 2016–17 season on October 12, 2016, against the St. Louis Blues. He scored his first NHL goal three days later in a game against the Nashville Predators. Despite a slow start, Schmaltz improved throughout the season, finishing with six goals and 22 assists for 28 points in 61 games. His performance earned him a spot in the Blackhawks’ playoff roster, where he made his postseason debut. The following season, Schmaltz had a breakout year, playing alongside Ryan Hartman and Patrick Kane, and finished with 21 goals and 31 assists for 52 points in 78 games.
Breakthrough (2018–2023)
In November 2018, Schmaltz was traded to the Arizona Coyotes, where he quickly made an impact by scoring five points in his first five games. However, he faced challenges with injuries during the 2018–19 season, which limited his playing time. Despite this setback, Schmaltz rebounded in the following seasons, leading the Coyotes in scoring with 45 points in the 2019–20 season. He continued to develop as a key player for the Coyotes, setting a franchise record with seven points in a single game in March 2022. Schmaltz finished the 2021–22 season with a career-high 23 goals, 36 assists, and 59 points.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Nick Schmaltz has established himself as a talented forward in the NHL. His signature moments include scoring the game-winning goal in the semifinals of the 2016 NCAA Tournament and setting franchise records with the Arizona Coyotes. Schmaltz’s ability to produce offensively and contribute to his team’s success has made him a valuable player in the league.
Nick Schmaltz Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Nick Schmaltz has received recognition for his performance on the ice, although specific award nominations are not detailed in the available information.
Nick Schmaltz Awards Won
Nick Schmaltz has achieved notable milestones in his career, including winning the NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks in 2016. However, specific awards won are not detailed in the available information.
Nick Schmaltz Family
Nick Schmaltz comes from a family with a strong athletic background. His older brother, Jordan, is also a professional ice hockey player, having played in the NHL and overseas. Their younger sister, Kylie, played volleyball for the Kentucky Wildcats.
Personal Life
Details about Nick Schmaltz’s personal life are limited, but he shares a close bond with his family, particularly with his siblings, who have also pursued athletic careers.
