Cameron Schmidt

January 2025 – Cameron Schmidt has pretty much everything you’d want out of a smaller player. He’s got blazing speed, lightning-quick acceleration, and tight edges, making Schmidt already one of the best skaters in the CHL. Schmidt’s early’ offensive dominance has been thanks in large part to that skating. Either receiving a stretch pass or leading the rush himself, Schmidt’s able to create a lot of clean looks for himself in the WHL. His shot is also undeniably dangerous. He’s got a quick snapper with a deceptive release that he loves to flash in transition. Schmidt’s wrister and one-timer are both powerful—potential NHL-level—weapons, making him a threat from either flank. With his hands and vision, Schmidt also has legitimate playmaking skill. He stretches the ice, pushes the pace and plays with a chip on his shoulder. What’s not to like?

Admittedly, Schmidt’s approach hasn’t translated as well to stages where he’s playing a smaller, often secondary role. Against steeper competition and playing with more talented peers, Schmidt hasn’t had as much space to work with, as many lapses to capitalize on, and, maybe most importantly, as many puck touches. That certainly poses a problem, not just at the NHL, but at any pro level. Going purely off tools, there’s a strong argument for taking Schmidt over all but a few players. The only worry is about his fit in an NHL top six.

Luke Sweeney