In his last four games—including both of the Jets’ postseason games—Schmidt has a helper. He contributed to an Adam Lowry basket during the Thursday defeat. The Jets would have more balance on their blue line if Schmidt could return to his previous level of production in the postseason. While playing in the third pairing, he has added a hit, three shots on goal, and an even plus-minus rating.
Game 1 against the Golden Knights on Tuesday was won 5-1, with Schmidt recording three shots on goal and an assist.
Schmidt assisted Blake Wheeler with his third-period total. Schmidt’s offensive performance this year has been lacking; in 71 regular-season games, he finished with 19 points. He is still limited to the third pairing, although he might be motivated to play better against one of his previous teams.
A few Jets players are getting the evening off in preparation for the postseason, while Josh Morrissey and Schmidt will be watching from the press box. The 31-year-old defenseman could provide respectable mid-range fantasy value in the postseason, but he will fall just short of the 20-point mark in back-to-back seasons.
