Announcement:Reilly Smith has been traded back to the Vegas Golden Knights News from ESPN..

In a significant move ahead of the NHL trade deadline, the New York Rangers have traded veteran forward Reilly Smith back to the Vegas Golden Knights. In exchange, the Rangers receive a third-round pick in the upcoming NHL Draft and prospect Brendan Brisson. To facilitate the trade, New York will retain 50% of Smith’s $3.75 million cap hit. citeturn0news10

Smith, 33, is in the final year of a three-year, $15 million contract he signed with Vegas in July 2022. Throughout his 14-season NHL career, he has played for the Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New York Rangers. Notably, Smith was part of the inaugural Golden Knights team, spending six seasons with the franchise and contributing to their Stanley Cup victory in 2023. citeturn0search11

Prior to the trade, Smith was held out of the Rangers’ lineup for two consecutive games against the Nashville Predators and the New York Islanders, with the team citing “roster management purposes.” This move fueled speculation about his potential departure before the trade deadline. citeturn0search2

Smith’s return to Vegas reunites him with a team where he achieved considerable success, including a career-high 60-point season in 2017-18 and a pivotal role in their 2023 Stanley Cup win. His versatility and experience are expected to bolster the Golden Knights’ lineup as they pursue another championship.