The Utah Mammoth are in the midst of a strong season, but there's a buzz around the potential trade of Nick Schmaltz. Despite his impressive contributions, with 53 points in 57 games, Schmaltz might be on the move due to financial considerations.
Schmaltz has become a fan favorite, playing a pivotal role alongside star Clayton Keller. However, as he approaches 30, his current $5.85 million AAV is set for a significant increase, and contract talks haven't been smooth. Discussions last summer even touched on possible trade destinations for Schmaltz, hinting at the challenges ahead.
For the Mammoth, trading Schmaltz would require a "hockey trade"-a deal aimed at enhancing their on-ice performance rather than focusing on financial or prospect considerations. Given Schmaltz's impact, finding a suitable trade would be challenging but not out of the question.
With the NHL trade deadline looming on March 6, Mammoth fans are anxiously waiting to see if one of their key players will remain part of the team. The stakes are high, and the outcome could significantly influence Utah's playoff aspirations.