The Minnesota Wild announced Tuesday that they have inked 23-year-old defenseman Roman Schmidt to a one-year, two-way contract for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Schmidt, born on February 27, 2003, brings a blend of physicality and offensive upside to the organization.
During the 2025-26 campaign Schmidt appeared in 19 games for the Iowa Wild, registering two assists while accumulating 34 penalty minutes. Across the season he suited up for a total of 48 AHL games with the Syracuse Crunch, Lehigh Valley Phantoms, and Iowa Wild, contributing nine points — three goals and six assists — and 173 penalty minutes over his AHL career.
AHL Experience and Career Path
Schmidt’s professional journey began after he was selected 96th overall in the third round of the 2021 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was later acquired by the Iowa Wild from the Philadelphia Flyers on March 1, 2026, a move that underscored his growing reputation as a reliable defensive presence.
OHL Roots and Draft pedigree
Before turning pro, Schmidt developed his game in the Ontario Hockey League, playing for the Kitchener Rangers and Kingston Frontenacs. In 179 OHL contests he tallied 93 points, including 23 goals and 70 assists, showcasing the offensive instincts that helped him transition to the professional ranks.
Management Outlook
General manager Bill Guerin highlighted the value of Schmidt’s defensive reliability and experience, noting that his blend of physical play and offensive contributions should help provide depth on the blue line for the Wild.