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Reilly Smith
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Reilly Smith
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Reilly Smith (born April 1, 1991) is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a right winger for the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Key Information

Growing up in Toronto, Smith played junior hockey with St. Michael's College School before playing three seasons of NCAA Division I collegiate hockey with the Miami University's RedHawks in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). During his time in college, Smith was drafted in the third round, 69th overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2009 NHL entry draft. Upon joining the Stars in 2012, he played one full season with the team before being included in a blockbuster trade between Dallas and the Boston Bruins, which sent him, Loui Eriksson, Joe Morrow and Matt Fraser to Boston in exchange for Tyler Seguin, Rich Peverley and Ryan Button. After a short time in Boston, Smith joined the Florida Panthers for two seasons before landing with the Vegas Golden Knights. While with the Knights, he won the Stanley Cup in 2023, scoring the Cup-clinching goal in game five. After stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Rangers following Vegas' Cup win, Smith was traded back to Vegas in 2025.

Smith was born into an athletic family; he is the younger brother of current Dallas Stars defenceman Brendan Smith and professional lacrosse player Rory Smith.

Early life

[edit]

Smith was born on April 1, 1991, in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada[1] to parents Lester and Deirdre Smith.[2] Smith was born into an athletic family; his older brother Brendan Smith plays for the Dallas Stars while his brother Rory competes in the National Lacrosse League (NLL).[3] The three all played minor hockey in the Etobicoke neighbourhood of Mimico with the Faustina Sports Club, then all played for the St. Michael's Buzzers minor juniors.[4]

Playing career

[edit]

Amateur

[edit]
Smith (left) with the RedHawks, February 2011

Growing up, Smith played junior hockey with the Toronto Nationals U16 AAA and St. Michael's College School in Toronto, Ontario. While with St. Michael's, he participated in the CJHL All-Star Game and served as both captain and assistant captain during his career. In his final season with the team, Smith was named their Most Valuable Player after recording 75 points.[5] Prior to entering his freshman season with the Miami University's RedHawks, Smith won a bronze medal at the 2008 World Junior A Challenge[6] and was drafted in the third round, 69th overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2009 NHL entry draft.[7]

Following the draft, Smith began his freshman season with the Redhawks in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) while majoring in sport studies.[5] Although he admitted to being shocked at the speed of collegiate hockey, Smith recorded eight goals and 20 points in 43 games.[8] During the season, he was also selected to take part in Canada's National Junior Team selection camp.[9]

Upon returning to the RedHawks for his sophomore season, Smith experienced a breakout year and recorded 54 points in 38 games.[1] While playing alongside played alongside seniors Carter Camper and Andy Miele,[10] Smith led the nation's underclassmen in goals and points while also ranking seventh overall in the country for points. As a result of his success during his sophomore year, Smith was named to the All-Florida College Classic Team, voted first team all-CCHA, named to the CCHA all-Tournament Team, College Hockey News Second-Team All-America, and INCH Third-Team All-America.[5]

Smith returned to the RedHawks for his junior year, where he recorded a career-high 30 goals in 39 games.[1] As a result of his success, Smith was named a Hobey Baker Award finalist,[11] First-Team All-America,[12] and finalist for the RBC Financial Group CCHA Player of the Year.[13]

Professional

[edit]

Dallas Stars (2011–2013)

[edit]

On March 25, 2012, Smith relinquished his final year at Miami to sign a three-year, entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars.[14] He made his NHL debut on March 28, 2012, against the Edmonton Oilers and skated for five shifts.[15] Smith played 4:05 minutes of ice time and recorded one shot on goal in the 3–1 loss.[16] He played two more games with the Stars before they concluded their regular season.[1]

After attending the Stars' 2012 training camp, Smith was reassigned to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Texas Stars.[17] During his first 11 games in the AHL, he had recorded three assists.[18] He was promoted to Dallas for the season once play resumed in January 2013 and scored his first career NHL goal on February 15, 2013, against Cory Schneider of the Vancouver Canucks. His second goal came a few days later in a 4–3 loss to the Calgary Flames.[19] As a result of his early success, Smith was promoted to a top six position in February and played left wing on a line with Derek Roy and Loui Eriksson.[20] After playing in 28 games for Dallas, and recording six points, he was reassigned to the AHL alongside defenseman Joe Morrow.[21] He was recalled shortly thereafter after recording one goal and one assist during a game against the Houston Aeros.[22]

Boston Bruins (2013–2015)

[edit]
Smith with the Bruins in April 2014

In July 2013, Smith was included in a blockbuster trade between Dallas and the Boston Bruins, which sent him, Loui Eriksson, Joe Morrow and Matt Fraser to Boston in exchange for Tyler Seguin, Rich Peverley and Ryan Button.[23] During the pre-season, Smith was placed on the Bruins' third line with Chris Kelly and Carl Söderberg.[24] However, as a result of injuries, Smith was moved up to a line with Patrice Bergeron and Loui Eriksson.[25] He finished the regular season with 19 goals and 30 assists which included 17 points throughout November. As a result of his success, the New England Sports Network (NESN) TV network named Smith the 45th annual "7th Player." The "7th Player" is awarded to the Boston Bruin who most exceeded all expectations that season, as voted by the team's fans.[26]

The following year, Smith finished with 13 goals and 27 assists, plus four goals and an assist in 12 playoff games.[1]

Florida Panthers (2015–2017)

[edit]

On July 1, 2015, Smith was traded by the Bruins, along with Marc Savard's contract, to the Florida Panthers in exchange for Jimmy Hayes.[27] During his first season with the team, Smith recorded a new career high 50 points in 82 games and tied for third on the team in goal scoring. On July 3, 2016, Smith signed a five-year, $25 million contract extension with the Panthers.[28] Following the contract extension, Smith had a self described "disappointing year" after he recorded 15 goals and 22 assists in the 2016–17 season.[29]

Vegas Golden Knights (2017–2023)

[edit]

On June 21, 2017, Smith was traded at the 2017 NHL expansion draft to the Vegas Golden Knights due to salary cap issues. Both he and teammate Jonathan Marchessault were acquired by the Golden Knights, with the Panthers receiving a fourth-round pick in the 2018 NHL entry draft. During his tenure in Florida, Smith had 87 points in 162 games.[30] Following the trade, Smith began the 2017–18 season as a winger with William Karlsson and Marchessault. Their line received early praise for being amongst the team's best lines, with them all scoring high by November.[31] Upon entering January, Smith had become a prominent fixture on the first line as they had combined for 19 goals and 24 assists.[32] The following month, Smith was recognized as an NHL Third Star of the Month of February after posting 20 points in 14 games.[33] Smith would go on to score a career-high 60 points in the regular season as the Knights advanced all the way to the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals. During their postseason run, Smith scored five goals and 17 assists.[1]

Following his career-high season, Smith stayed consistent with his offensive abilities and recorded the second-best statistical season of his career. He tied Marchessault for the team lead in assists with 34 and surpassed the 50-point mark for the second season in a row.[34] Upon returning to the Knights, Smith remained with Marchessault and Karlsson and recorded his 100th career NHL goal in a 4–2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 11, 2018.[35] Later that season, he also appeared in his 500th career NHL game, while also maintaining eight points in his past three games.[36] As the Knights qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs for the second consecutive year, Smith recorded one goal and five assists in their series against the San Jose Sharks.[34]

At the time of the pausing of the 2019–20 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith had scored a career high 27 goals in 71 games played. After surpassing the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs, Smith tied with Mark Stone for team lead in points.[37] As the playoffs continued, Smith experienced an 11 game goal drought which was snapped in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final against the Dallas Stars.[38]

Following the naming of Mark Stone as team captain, Smith was appointed an alternate captain alongside Alex Pietrangelo.[39] While playing in his 628 career game, Smith recorded his first professional hat-trick in a 4–1 win over the St. Louis Blues on May 9, 2021.[40]

On July 13, 2022, Smith signed a three-year, $15 million contract to remain with the Golden Knights.[41]

By the 2022–23 season, Smith was one of six remaining original members of the Golden Knights, alongside Marchessault, Karlsson, Brayden McNabb, Shea Theodore and William Carrier. The team reached the Stanley Cup Finals for the second time, winning the Cup over the Florida Panthers in five games. Smith and four of the other original Golden Knights started the decisive Game 5.[42]

Pittsburgh Penguins (2023–2024)

[edit]

On June 28, 2023, Smith was traded by the Golden Knights to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a third round pick in the 2024 NHL entry draft.[43] The move was precipitated by the Golden Knights' desire to retain newly-acquired forward Ivan Barbashev, with general manager Kelly McCrimmon stating "to get there, we moved Reilly to Pittsburgh to facilitate some of the other moves that we want to make."[44] During the first game of the 2023–24 season, Smith and Bryan Rust scored in the first 41 seconds of the third period to become the second-fastest Penguins teammates to score at the start of a period in franchise history.[45]

New York Rangers (2024–2025)

[edit]

On July 1, 2024, Smith was traded by the Penguins to the New York Rangers in exchange for a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2025 and a second-round draft pick in the 2027 draft.[46]

Return to Vegas (2025–present)

[edit]

On March 6, 2025, Smith was traded by the Rangers back to the Golden Knights, in exchange for Brendan Brisson and a third-round draft pick in 2025.[47] Following the season, Smith signed a further one-year extension to remain with Vegas, avoiding free agency.[48]

Career statistics

[edit]
Medal record
Ice hockey
Representing  Canada East
World Junior A Challenge
Bronze medal – third place 2008 Camrose
Regular season Playoffs
Season Team League GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM
2006–07 Toronto Nationals AAA GTHL U16 70 80 77 157 56 — — — — —
2007–08 St. Michael's Buzzers OPJHL 38 31 24 55 92 1 0 0 0 2
2008–09 St. Michael's Buzzers OJHL 49 27 48 75 44 6 9 5 15 10
2009–10 Miami RedHawks CCHA 44 8 12 20 24 — — — — —
2010–11 Miami RedHawks CCHA 38 28 26 54 18 — — — — —
2011–12 Miami RedHawks CCHA 39 30 18 48 22 — — — — —
2011–12 Dallas Stars NHL 3 0 0 0 2 — — — — —
2012–13 Texas Stars AHL 45 14 21 35 20 7 0 4 4 0
2012–13 Dallas Stars NHL 37 3 6 9 8 — — — — —
2013–14 Boston Bruins NHL 82 20 31 51 14 12 4 1 5 0
2014–15 Boston Bruins NHL 81 13 27 40 20 — — — — —
2015–16 Florida Panthers NHL 82 25 25 50 31 6 4 4 8 0
2016–17 Florida Panthers NHL 80 15 22 37 17 — — — — —
2017–18 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 67 22 38 60 24 20 5 17 22 10
2018–19 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 74 19 34 53 14 7 1 5 6 0
2019–20 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 71 27 27 54 20 20 5 9 14 8
2020–21 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 53 14 11 25 18 19 3 7 10 4
2021–22 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 56 16 22 38 8 — — — — —
2022–23 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 78 26 30 56 16 22 4 10 14 14
2023–24 Pittsburgh Penguins NHL 76 13 27 40 18 — — — — —
2024–25 New York Rangers NHL 58 10 19 29 22 — — — — —
2024–25 Vegas Golden Knights NHL 21 3 8 11 2 11 3 1 4 4
NHL totals 919 226 327 553 234 117 29 54 83 40

Awards and honours

[edit]
Award Year
College
All-CCHA First Team 2011, 2012 [49][50]
CCHA All-Tournament Team 2011, 2012 [51]
AHCA West First-Team All-American 2012
Boston Bruins
Seventh Player Award 2014 [26]
NHL
Stanley Cup champion 2023 [52]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Reilly Smith

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Reilly Smith is a Canadian professional ice hockey right winger currently playing for the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on April 1, 1991, in Mimico, Ontario, Smith was selected in the third round, 69th overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Smith began his NHL career with the Stars in the 2011–12 season after a standout collegiate tenure at Miami University, where he was a Hobey Baker Award finalist in 2011–12. He was traded to the Boston Bruins in 2013 and then to the Florida Panthers in 2015, where he developed into a reliable two-way forward, achieving a career-high 27 goals in the 2019–20 season. Smith was traded to the expansion Vegas Golden Knights from the Florida Panthers in 2017, becoming a key contributor to their inaugural Pacific Division title and Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2017–18, during which he recorded a career-best 60 points. Smith's tenure with Vegas included winning the in 2023, where he scored the clinching goal in Game 5 of the Final against the . He was traded to the in 2023 and then to the in 2024 before being traded back to the Golden Knights from the on March 6, 2025, and signing a one-year, $2 million contract extension on June 25, 2025. Over his NHL career spanning 15 seasons as of 2025, Smith has appeared in 932 games, accumulating 227 goals, 328 assists, and 555 points, while maintaining a +133 rating and excelling in penalty killing and shorthanded scoring.

Background

Early life

Reilly Smith was born on April 1, 1991, in , , . He is the youngest of three sons born to parents Lester and Deirdre Smith, both of whom worked as educators and school principals before retiring. Smith grew up in the neighborhood of , where his family emphasized athletic pursuits and close-knit . His household was filled with competitive games of mini-sticks hockey in the basement, fostering his early interest in the sport amid the influences of his sport-oriented parents and brothers. The family dynamic, marked by support for each child's passions, shaped Smith's formative years in this urban community. Alongside his older brothers—Brendan, who became an NHL defenseman, and , a professional player—Smith participated in minor hockey leagues in the area from a young age, often starting before the age of five. This early involvement in local youth programs helped develop his foundational skills and love for the game through unstructured play and family encouragement. Smith later attended in during his adolescence.

Personal life

Reilly Smith shares a close bond with his older brothers, Brendan and , both of whom pursued professional athletic careers—Brendan as an NHL defenseman and in the . Growing up in , , the siblings engaged in competitive mini-stick hockey games that fostered their shared passion for sports, and Brendan attended the 2018 Final to support Reilly during the ' run. Smith married Melissa Ponte in October 2020, and the couple welcomed their first daughter, Isla, in August 2022. Their family expanded further with the birth of their second daughter, Rey Smith, on March 27, 2024. The family also includes a miniature named Hunter, acquired during their initial years in . The Smiths primarily reside in a 5,900-square-foot home in , which Reilly retained after his initial departure from the Golden Knights in 2023 and where the family returned upon his trade-back in 2025; they spend off-seasons in the area near extended family. Outside of hockey, Smith enjoys golfing year-round in , along with attending shows and dining at local restaurants, activities he has cited as highlights of life in the city. He is actively involved in , hosting the annual Battle for Vegas charity softball event since 2019 to benefit organizations like the Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern , which raised $155,000 in 2025 alone. His humanitarian efforts earned him the Golden Knights' nomination for the 2023 . Smith also supports the Tyler Robinson Foundation, focused on children battling cancer.

Playing career

Junior career

Reilly Smith began his junior hockey career with the St. Michael's Buzzers of the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League (OPJHL) during the 2007–08 season, following a family tradition in the sport where his brothers also pursued competitive play. Limited to 13 games that year due to initial adjustment, he recorded 2 goals and 7 assists for 9 points, demonstrating early promise as a right winger with solid playmaking ability. In the 2008–09 season, Smith transitioned to the restructured Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) and enjoyed a breakout performance with the Buzzers, appearing in 49 regular-season games and accumulating 27 goals along with 48 assists for 75 points. His offensive output included a strong playoff showing, where he added 9 goals and 6 assists in 6 games, underscoring his scoring prowess and hockey sense. Scouts praised his speed, agility, and quick shot as key attributes that positioned him as a dynamic right winger capable of contributing in multiple zones. Smith's junior achievements culminated in his selection by the in the third round, 69th overall, of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Pre-draft evaluations highlighted his strong skating stride, competitive edge, and potential as a reliable two-way forward, leading to invitations to ' development camps where he further impressed with his and skill set.

International career

Reilly Smith's international experience is limited to youth-level competition. He represented at the 2008 , a for under-19 players from various junior leagues. In four games, Smith recorded three goals and one assist for four points, with no penalty minutes. His standout performance came in the game against Canada West, where he scored a and added an assist, helping secure a 7-4 victory and the . Smith has not participated in any senior international tournaments, such as the IIHF World Championships or Olympics, during his professional career in the National Hockey League.

Collegiate career

Reilly Smith enrolled at in 2009 and played three seasons for the RedHawks men's team in the (CCHA) from 2009 to 2012. In his freshman season of 2009–10, Smith played in all 44 games, the only freshman to do so, and recorded 8 goals and 12 assists for 20 points while accumulating 24 penalty minutes. The RedHawks captured the CCHA regular season championship with a 29–7–7 record and advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four as the No. 1 overall seed, defeating Alabama–Huntsville in the first round and Michigan in the regional final before falling 4–1 to Boston College in the semifinals. Smith's scoring production surged in his sophomore year of 2010–11, where he tallied 28 goals and 26 assists for 54 points in 38 games, along with 18 penalty minutes, helping the team to a 24–12–7 mark. He earned All-CCHA First Team honors as one of three RedHawks selected, a program record at the time. The team won the CCHA playoff tournament championship—their first since 1986—for the automatic NCAA bid and entered as the No. 1 overall seed but lost 3–1 to in the first round. As a junior in 2011–12, Smith served as team captain and led Miami with 30 goals and 48 points in 39 games, adding 22 penalty minutes; his goal total ranked second nationally, and he tied a school record with 8 game-winning goals. He repeated as an All-CCHA First Team selection and was named a finalist for the , given annually to the top player in NCAA men's hockey. The RedHawks finished 25–10–8 and qualified for the NCAA tournament but were defeated 4–3 by UMass Lowell in the first round.

Dallas Stars (2011–2013)

Following his junior season at , where he contributed significantly to the RedHawks' offensive output, Reilly Smith signed a three-year entry-level contract with the on March 25, 2012. The deal carried a cap hit of $900,000 per season and marked his transition from collegiate to professional hockey, allowing him to join the Stars' roster immediately for the remainder of the 2011–12 NHL season. Smith began his professional career in the (AHL) with the during the 2012–13 season, appearing in 45 regular-season games and recording 14 goals and 21 assists for 35 points, along with a +20 plus-minus rating. His performance earned him the CCM/AHL Rookie of the Month award for December 2012, after tallying 10 goals and 10 assists in 32 games up to that point, showcasing his scoring prowess and playmaking ability on the wing. He also contributed four assists in seven playoff games as Texas advanced in the playoffs. On January 19, 2013, Smith received his first significant NHL call-up from Texas, joining the amid injuries and lineup needs, and he remained with the parent club for the rest of the season. Smith made his NHL debut on March 28, 2012, against the , logging 4:05 of ice time in a 3-1 Stars victory during his initial three-game stint that season, where he recorded no points but gained valuable experience. Returning to the NHL full-time after his January 2013 call-up, he played 37 games in the 2012–13 season, establishing himself as a bottom-six forward. His first NHL goal came on February 15, 2013, against goaltender in a 4-3 win, assisted by and . Over his two seasons with Dallas, Smith appeared in 40 NHL games, scoring 3 goals and adding 6 assists for 9 points, while accumulating 8 penalty minutes.

Boston Bruins (2013–2015)

On July 4, 2013, Reilly Smith was traded from the to the as part of a seven-player deal that sent , , and Ryan Button to Dallas in exchange for Smith, , , and Matt Fraser. Joining a contending Bruins team after limited NHL experience in , Smith initially filled a depth forward role on the right wing, starting on the third line before earning promotion to the second line alongside and Eriksson due to his strong early-season performance. His skating ability and quick release helped him contribute offensively while adapting to Boston's structured system. In the 2013–14 season, Smith had a breakout year, recording 20 goals and 51 points in 82 games, leading all Bruins in scoring and finishing fifth overall on the team. His plus-28 rating highlighted his defensive reliability as a depth player who exceeded expectations, earning him the Seventh Player Award on April 5, 2014, voted by fans for the player who most surpassed preseason projections with 19 goals and 49 points in 77 games at that point. The Bruins, who finished first in the Atlantic Division, advanced to the playoffs, where Smith tallied five points (four goals, one assist) in 12 games, including the go-ahead goal in a 5–3 Game 2 win over the in the second round. His four playoff goals tied for third on the team, showcasing poise in high-stakes matchups despite Boston's eventual elimination in six games by . Smith's production dipped slightly in 2014–15, with 13 goals and 40 points in 81 games, though he increased his average time on ice to 15:24 per game while continuing as a reliable middle-six forward. The Bruins regressed to third in the Atlantic Division but missed the playoffs for the first time since 2007, ending Smith's two-year Boston tenure without further postseason action.

Florida Panthers (2015–2017)

On July 1, 2015, the Florida Panthers acquired forward Reilly Smith from the Boston Bruins in exchange for forward Jimmy Hayes and the contract of Marc Savard, providing the Panthers with added scoring depth on the wing. In his first season with Florida during 2015–16, Smith achieved a career-high 25 goals and 50 points in 82 games, contributing significantly to the team's offensive output as a reliable second-line winger. These totals helped the Panthers secure the Atlantic Division title with a 47–26–9 record and 103 points, marking their first division championship since 2012. In the playoffs, Florida advanced to the first round but fell to the New York Islanders in six games, with Smith recording three goals and five points in the series. During the 2016–17 season, Smith appeared in 80 games for the Panthers, tallying 15 goals and 37 points while providing consistent two-way play amid a team transition that included a midseason coaching change from to Tom Rowe. The Panthers finished sixth in the Atlantic Division with a 35–36–11 record and 81 points, missing the playoffs for the second time in three years. Despite the team's struggles, Smith's steady production underscored his growth as a complementary scorer in Florida's up-tempo system. On July 1, 2016, Smith signed a five-year, $25 million contract extension with the Panthers, securing his role through the 2021–22 season at an average annual value of $5 million and reflecting the organization's commitment to its emerging core. He frequently centered the second line alongside center and left winger , a trio that developed strong chemistry and combined for effective forechecking and transition play during Florida's push for Atlantic contention. This partnership highlighted Smith's ability to elevate linemates through smart positioning and opportunistic scoring, contributing to the Panthers' dynamic team structure.

Vegas Golden Knights (2017–2023)

Reilly Smith joined the as part of the team's inaugural roster during the 2017 NHL Expansion Draft, when the franchise acquired him from the in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft and expansion draft considerations. As one of the original "Misfits," Smith quickly established himself as a foundational top-six forward, leveraging his speed and playmaking to contribute to the expansion team's surprising success in its debut season. Over the next six seasons, from 2017–18 to 2022–23, Smith maintained consistent production as a reliable middle-six winger, often playing on the top lines alongside linemates like and . He recorded 40 or more points in four of those campaigns, including a career-high 60 points (22 goals, 38 assists) in 67 games during the 2017–18 season, helping Vegas capture the Pacific Division title. His scoring dipped during the shortened 2020–21 season due to a injury that limited him to 53 games and 25 points, but he rebounded with 38 points in 56 games the following year and 56 points in 78 games in 2022–23. Smith's defensive reliability was evident in his plus-31 rating in 2017–18, the highest on the team, underscoring his two-way impact. Smith played a pivotal role in Vegas's deep playoff runs throughout his tenure. In the 2017–18 postseason, he excelled en route to the Final, tallying 22 points (5 goals, 17 assists) in 20 games, which ranked second on the team and highlighted his chemistry with the top line. The 2019–20 playoffs, held in the bubble amid the , saw Vegas advance to another Final appearance, where Smith contributed 14 points (5 goals, 9 assists) in 20 games, including key goals against the and . His postseason prowess peaked in 2023, as Vegas won the ; Smith posted 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 22 games and scored the Cup-clinching goal in Game 5 of the Final against the at 12:13 of the second period. As a veteran presence, Smith assumed greater leadership responsibilities in his later years with Vegas, serving as an alternate captain starting in the 2020–21 season alongside players like and . This role emphasized his importance in fostering team culture during the franchise's growth from to champion. Regarding his contract, Smith operated under the remaining term of a five-year, $25 million extension originally signed with in 2016 until its expiration after the 2020–21 season; he then re-signed with Vegas on July 13, 2022, to a three-year, $15 million deal with an average annual value of $5 million.

Pittsburgh Penguins (2023–2024)

On June 28, 2023, the traded Reilly Smith to the in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, aiming to bolster Pittsburgh's top-six forward group with a proven scorer and penalty killer. Smith, who had contributed to Vegas's 2023 victory as a reliable middle-six forward, joined a Penguins roster featuring stars and , where he was slotted on the second line alongside Malkin and to provide veteran leadership and offensive support. During the 2023–24 season, Smith appeared in 76 games for , recording 13 goals and 27 assists for 40 points while posting a +3 plus-minus rating and averaging 16:08 of ice time per game. His early-season chemistry with Malkin proved effective, as the line combined for 13 goals and 14 assists over the first 10 games, helping stabilize ' attack amid their push for a playoff spot in the competitive . As a seasoned presence on a contending but aging roster, Smith contributed on the power play and penalty kill, drawing on his championship experience to mentor younger players during Pittsburgh's late-season surge, where the team earned points in eight of their final 12 games despite ultimately finishing fifth in the division with 88 points. Smith faced challenges adjusting to head coach Mike Sullivan's system, with his production tapering off after a strong start—scoring just four goals post-January—partly due to an upper-body sustained on January 11, 2024, that sidelined him for six games. The , described as affecting his left arm, disrupted his momentum on the second line, though he returned to contribute steadily in a depth role as the Penguins navigated roster inconsistencies and a tight playoff race.

New York Rangers (2024–2025)

On July 1, 2024, the acquired forward Reilly Smith from the in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft and a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, with Pittsburgh retaining 25% of Smith's salary. The move aimed to bolster the Rangers' top-six forward group, positioning Smith as a potential right wing on the first line alongside center and left wing . Smith integrated into the Rangers' lineup primarily as a top-line winger early in the 2024–25 season, averaging 15:36 of time per and contributing offensively with skilled playmaking and power-play involvement. In 58 games with New York, he recorded 10 goals and 19 assists for 29 points, while posting a minus-1 rating and 22 penalty minutes, providing steady veteran presence amid lineup adjustments. His efforts helped stabilize the Rangers' forward depth during a middling start, where the team hovered around the middle of the standings through the first half of the season. Smith's scoring output and defensive reliability aided the Rangers in maintaining competitiveness in the , contributing to their position just outside the playoff wild-card race by late February 2025, though the team ultimately finished fifth in the division with 85 points. On March 6, 2025, ahead of the NHL trade deadline, the Rangers traded Smith back to the in exchange for forward prospect and San Jose's 2025 third-round draft pick.

Vegas Golden Knights (2025–present)

On March 6, 2025, the Vegas Golden Knights reacquired forward Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers in exchange for prospect Brendan Brisson and a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The trade brought Smith back to the franchise where he had spent his most successful years, including the 2023 Stanley Cup championship, and he quickly reintegrated into the lineup on the third line alongside Tomas Hertl and Ivan Barbashev. In the remaining 21 regular-season games of 2024–25 with Vegas, Smith recorded 11 points (3 goals, 8 assists) while contributing to an improved penalty kill unit that ranked among the league's top performers late in the season. His return bolstered the team's depth during a crucial playoff push, as the Golden Knights clinched a postseason berth on April 1, 2025, and defeated the Minnesota Wild in six games in the first round. Smith added 4 points (3 goals, 1 assist) in 11 playoff games before Vegas fell to the Edmonton Oilers in five games in the second round. Following the , Smith signed a one-year, $2 million contract extension with the Golden Knights on June 25, 2025, which includes a full no-trade clause and secures his presence through the 2025–26 season. The deal reflects his value as a veteran presence and his expressed desire to remain in Vegas, where he has described the organization as feeling like "home." In the early 2025–26 season, as of November 14, 2025, Smith has appeared in 16 games, tallying 3 points (2 goals, 1 assist) with an average time on ice of 13:40 per game while playing primarily on the third line. As one of the original "Misfits" from Vegas's inaugural 2017–18 expansion season, Smith's second stint has emphasized his leadership qualities, mentoring younger players and enhancing team chemistry through his familiarity with the franchise's culture. At age 34, he continues to provide reliable two-way play and penalty-killing expertise, helping stabilize the bottom-six forwards amid injuries to key contributors like . Looking ahead, Smith's extension positions him to pursue another contention run with Vegas, while he approaches career milestones, including his 600th NHL point, currently standing at 558 as of November 14, 2025.

Career statistics and achievements

Career statistics

Reilly Smith's professional and amateur career statistics are detailed below, encompassing his performance in the National Hockey League (NHL), (AHL), (NCAA), (OJHL/OPJHL), and international competition.

NHL Regular Season

SeasonTeamGPGAPtsPIM
2011–12DAL30002
2012–13DAL373698
2013–14BOS8220315114
2014–15BOS8113274020
2015–16FLA8225255031
2016–17FLA8015223717
2017–18VEG6722386024
2018–19VEG7419345314
2019–20VEG7127275420
2020–21VEG5314112518
2021–22VEG561622388
2022–23VEG7826305616
2023–24PIT7613274018
2024–25NYR/VEG7913274024
Total919226327553234
As of November 14, 2025, Smith has recorded 3 points (2 goals, 1 assist) in 16 games during the 2025–26 season with the .

NHL Playoffs

SeasonTeamGPGAPtsPIM
2013–14124150
2015–16FLA64480
2017–18VEG205172210
2018–19VEG71560
2019–20VEG2059148
2020–21VEG1937104
2022–23VEG224101414
2024–25VEG113144
Total11729548340

AHL Summary (Texas Stars, 2011–13)

During the 2012–13 season, Smith appeared in 45 games for the , tallying 14 goals, 21 assists, 35 points, and 20 penalty minutes. He added 4 points (0 goals, 4 assists) in 7 playoff games. No AHL games were recorded for the 2011–12 season.

NCAA Summary (, 2009–12)

SeasonGPGAPtsPIM
2009–10448122024
2010–113828265418
2011–123930184822
Total121665612264

OPJHL Totals (St. Michael's Buzzers)

Over two seasons from 2007–09, Smith accumulated 29 goals, 55 assists, 84 points, and 66 penalty minutes in 62 regular-season games. In playoffs, he recorded 0 goals, 0 assists, 0 points, and 2 PIM in 1 game during 2007–08, and 9 goals, 6 assists, 15 points, and 10 PIM in 6 games during 2008–09.

International Stats (2008 World Junior A Challenge)

Representing , Smith played 4 games at the , scoring 3 goals and 1 assist for 4 points with 0 penalty minutes, helping secure a .

Awards and honors

During his junior career with the St. Michael's Buzzers in the , Smith contributed to 's win at the , where he recorded a in the game against . At , Smith earned CCHA All-Rookie Team honors in 2010 after scoring 14 points in 28 games as a . He was selected to the All-CCHA First Team in both 2011 and 2012, recognizing his standout offensive contributions, including a league-leading 30 goals in his junior year. Smith also received CCHA Player of the Month accolades three times during the 2011-12 season and was a finalist for the CCHA Player of the Year award that year. Additionally, he was named a finalist for the in 2012, honoring the top player in NCAA men's , and earned AHCA West First-Team All-American honors. In the with the [Texas Stars](/page/Texas Stars) during the 2012-13 season, Smith was named CCM/AHL of the Month for after leading the with eight goals and 14 points in 14 games. With the in the NHL, Smith received the Seventh Player Award in 2014, presented by to the player who most exceeded expectations, following a breakout season with 19 goals and 49 points. During his tenure with the Vegas Golden Knights, Smith won the team's First Star Award for the 2019-20 season, recognizing his on-ice performance, and the Vegas Strong Service Award in 2022-23 for his community contributions, including leadership in team efforts. He also contributed to the Golden Knights' championship victory in 2023, appearing in 22 playoff games.

References

  1. https://www.nhl.com/goldenknights/player/reilly-smith-8475191
  2. https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/getting-to-know-reilly-smith
  3. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2014/04/18/smith-brothers-to-meet-in-playoffs-for-1st-time/7859089/
  4. https://legacy.lvccld.org/vgk/smith/
  5. https://www.thehockeynews.com/news/toronto-brothers-brendan-and-reilly-smith-meet-in-playoffs-for-first-time
  6. https://kids.kiddle.co/Reilly_Smith
  7. https://www.nhlpa.com/news/brendan-smith-enjoying-spring-as-a-proud-brother-and-new-father/
  8. https://www.nj.com/devils/2023/06/how-devils-brendan-smith-helped-fuel-brother-reillys-stanley-cup-motivation-through-competitive-mini-sticks-battles-growing-up.html
  9. https://page31.sinbin.vegas/welcome-baby-smith/
  10. https://www.dkpittsburghsports.com/2024/03/01/penguins-reilly-smith-pittsburgh-trade-vegas-tlh
  11. https://www.facebook.com/vegasgoldenknights/videos/the-return-of-an-original-misfit-more-on-reilly-smith-tonight-on-knight-life-ktn/545323795245988/
  12. https://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/reilly-smiths-house/view/google/
  13. https://apnews.com/article/vegas-golden-knights-reilly-smith-e8623a6ac1e9e7c78c96c3abb48ccea7
  14. https://www.ktnv.com/news/golden-knights/vgk-forward-reilly-smith-on-his-love-for-the-city-of-las-vegas
  15. https://www.facebook.com/vegasgoldenknights/posts/jack-eichel-reilly-smith-and-cole-schwindt-helped-raise-155000-for-local-chariti/1768323263795525/
  16. https://news3lv.com/news/local/reilly-smith-named-golden-knights-nominee-king-clancy-trophy-charity-humanitarian-efforts-battle-for-vegas-softball-southern-nevada-sports-nhl
  17. https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/33903/reilly-smith
  18. https://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=115612
  19. https://thehockeywriters.com/revisiting-the-dallas-stars-2009-draft-picks/
  20. https://www.defendingbigd.com/2009-nhl-draft-second-day-recap/
  21. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/962353-each-nhl-teams-hottest-top-prospect
  22. https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/news/2008-nr-152-en
  23. https://miamiredhawks.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey/roster/reilly-smith/1698
  24. https://www.collegehockeynews.com/schedules/team/Miami/30/20092010
  25. https://www.ncaa.com/history/icehockey-men/d1
  26. https://miamiredhawks.com/news/2011/3/9/redhawks_land_record_three_on_all_ccha_first_team
  27. https://www.collegehockeynews.com/schedules/team/Miami/30/20102011
  28. https://theahl.com/stats/player/4642
  29. https://hobeybaker.com/hbma/reilly-smith/
  30. https://www.uscho.com/2012/03/08/ccha-names-all-conference-selections-ferris-state-pair-lead-first-team/
  31. https://www.collegehockeynews.com/reports/ncaa-tournament/2012
  32. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/smithre01.html
  33. https://www.texasstars.com/news/detail/texas-stars-left-wing-reilly-smith-named-ccmahl-rookie-of-the-month-for-december
  34. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/smithre01/gamelog/2012
  35. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/smithre01/gamelog/2013
  36. https://www.masslive.com/bruins/2013/10/boston_bruins_forward_reilly_smith_has_earned_time_on_second_line.html
  37. https://nesn.com/2014/04/bruins-forward-reilly-smith-wins-nesns-7th-player-award/
  38. https://www.si.com/nhl/2014/05/04/ap-hkn-canadiens-bruins-2nd-ld-writethru
  39. https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/boston-bruins-trade-reilly-smith-marc-savard-contract-to-florida-panthers-for-jimmy-hayes/
  40. https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/FLA/2016.html
  41. https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/FLA/2017.html
  42. https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/16733706/vincent-trocheck-completes-6-year-285-million-deal-florida-panthers
  43. https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nhl/florida-panthers/article65865432.html
  44. https://www.nhl.com/goldenknights/news/vegas-golden-knights-acquire-forward-reilly-smith-from-new-york-rangers
  45. https://www.spotrac.com/nhl/player/_/id/9374/reilly-smith
  46. https://records.nhl.com/awards/stanley-cup/clinching-goals
  47. https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/22211/vegas-golden-knights/captaincy-history
  48. https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/37929753/one-original-golden-knights-reilly-smith-traded-penguins
  49. https://triblive.com/sports/penguins-acquire-forward-reilly-smith-from-golden-knights/
  50. https://pittsburghhockeynow.com/pittsburgh-penguins-evgeni-malkin-second-line-reilly-smith-rickard-rakell/
  51. https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/evgeni-malkin-reilly-smith-pittsburgh-penguins
  52. https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/PIT/2024.html
  53. https://www.pensburgh.com/2024/5/8/24150758/2023-24-season-in-review-reilly-smith
  54. https://triblive.com/sports/penguins-a-to-z-things-rarely-seemed-right-for-reilly-smith/
  55. https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2024/02/05/reilly-smith-injury-pittsburgh-penguins-evgeni-malkin/stories/202401300107
  56. https://www.nhl.com/news/reilly-smith-traded-to-rangers-by-penguins
  57. https://puckpedia.com/trade/875
  58. https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-rangers-roster-changes-for-2024-25-season
  59. https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/NHL_2025_standings.html
  60. https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/golden-knights-acquire-forward-reilly-smith-from-rangers/
  61. https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/44139090/rangers-trade-reilly-smith-golden-knights-prospect-pick
  62. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6182037/2025/03/06/golden-knights-reilly-smith-trade-cassidy-rangers/
  63. https://sinbin.vegas/reilly-smith-not-shy-about-expressing-desire-to-remain-a-golden-knight/
  64. https://www.foxsports.com/nhl/reilly-smith-player-stats?category=scoring&seasonType=post
  65. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6451662/2025/06/25/reilly-smith-contract-golden-knights-contract/
  66. https://www.quanthockey.com/nhl/teams/vegas-golden-knights-players-2025-26-nhl-stats.html
  67. https://vegashockeynow.com/2025/03/06/original-misfit-returns-reilly-smith-reunited-with-golden-knights/
  68. https://www.ktnv.com/sports/golden-knights/knights-in-the-morning/knights-in-the-morning-reilly-smith-talks-about-returning-to-las-vegas
  69. https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/National-Championships/Men/World-Junior-A-Challenge/2016/downloads/WJAC-Guide-Record-Book.pdf
  70. https://www.daytondailynews.com/sports/college/smith-named-all-ccha-squad/UG4Nkk130njiZmKaNKeKCL/
  71. https://miamiredhawks.com/news/2012/4/16/smith_garners_ccha_player_of_the_month_for_third_time
  72. https://miamiredhawks.com/news/2012/3/8/smith_czarnik_finalists_for_ccha_s_top_honors
  73. https://theahl.com/news/stars-smith-named-top-rookie-for-december
  74. https://www.nhl.com/goldenknights/news/vegas-golden-knights-announce-plans-for-end-of-season-awards
  75. https://www.nhl.com/goldenknights/news/vgk-announce-three-winners-from-team-s-end-of-season-awards-343427436
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