Golden Knights Bolster Roster with Trade for Winger Cole Smith
LAS VEGAS, NV – March 4, 2026 – The Vegas Golden Knights have acquired winger Cole Smith from the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Christoffer Sedoff and a third-round pick in the 2028 NHL Entry Draft, the team announced today. Smith, 30, has appeared in 42 games for Nashville this season, registering 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists). He is a pending unrestricted free agent. The Predators traded Smith hours after trading center Michael McCarron to the Minnesota Wild. Nashville now has five picks in the first three rounds of the 2028 draft. Smith has recorded 119 hits this season, tied for the second-highest total on the Predators.
Golden Knights Bolster Roster with Acquisition of Cole Smith
Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced today the acquisition of forward Cole Smith from the Nashville Predators. The trade sees defenseman Christoffer Sedoff and a third-round pick in the 2028 NHL Entry Draft heading to Nashville. This move signals Vegas’ intent to strengthen their lineup as they push towards the playoffs.
A Gritty Addition to the Vegas Lineup
Cole Smith, a 30-year-old forward, brings a physical presence to the Golden Knights. He has recorded 119 hits during the 2025-26 campaign, ranking second among Nashville forwards. His ability to consistently deliver impactful hits will be a valuable asset for Vegas, particularly in the playoffs. Smith has appeared in 42 games this season, registering 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) with an average time on ice of 14:27.
Pro Tip: Teams often target players like Smith before the trade deadline to add a physical edge and depth to their bottom-six forward lines. This represents a common strategy for playoff contenders.
Nashville’s Shift Towards the Future
For the Predators, the trade of Smith is part of a larger strategy to accumulate draft picks and develop young talent. Nashville now possesses five picks in the first three rounds of the 2028 NHL Entry Draft. The Predators likewise recently traded center Michael McCarron to the Minnesota Wild for a 2028 second-round pick. This indicates a clear focus on rebuilding and securing future assets. Christoffer Sedoff, a prospect defenseman, offers Nashville potential on the blue line.
Smith’s NHL Journey and Potential Impact
Throughout his 271-game NHL career, all spent with Nashville, Smith has demonstrated consistent effort and a willingness to engage physically. He previously recorded a career-high 23 points in the 2023-24 season. Vegas anticipates utilizing Smith in a bottom-six role, providing depth and physicality to their forward group, especially with several forwards currently dealing with injuries. He is a pending unrestricted free agent after this season.
Did you understand? Cole Smith played four seasons of NCAA hockey at the University of North Dakota, earning a career-high 18 points in his final season and helping the Fighting Hawks win the NCHC regular-season title.
The Broader Trade Deadline Landscape
This trade is one of several moves happening as teams prepare for the NHL trade deadline on Friday. The Golden Knights, currently leading the Pacific Division, are looking to solidify their position, although the Predators are actively selling assets. The acquisition of Smith adds another dimension to Vegas’ already competitive roster.
FAQ
Q: What did the Golden Knights give up for Cole Smith?
A: Vegas traded defenseman Christoffer Sedoff and a third-round pick in the 2028 NHL Entry Draft.
Q: What position does Cole Smith play?
A: Cole Smith is a forward.
Q: Is Cole Smith a free agent?
A: Yes, Smith is a pending unrestricted free agent after the current season.
Q: Why did Nashville trade Cole Smith?
A: Nashville is rebuilding and accumulating draft picks for the future.
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