Nick Schmaltz contributed to the Utah Hockey Club's offensive efforts, setting up a goal for Nick Bjugstad with a blast from the right dot that Lindgren saved. His play was part of Utah's strategy, although the team struggled to capitalize on power plays throughout the game.

Nick Schmaltz has contributed 12 points in 17 games this season, but he has yet to score despite taking 35 shots on net. With a career shooting rate of 14.2 percent, it's expected that he will start finding the back of the net soon. Facing the Capitals, who are on the second leg of a back-to-back and playing on the road, presents a favorable opportunity for Schmaltz to break through. While stacking against Washington may not be advisable, he could be a valuable one-off play.

Nick Schmaltz had a notable opportunity in the first period when he had a chance to score, but Juuse Saros made a crucial save to maintain Nashville's 1-0 lead. This moment highlighted Utah's struggles, as they failed to capitalize on scoring chances and were shut out for the second time in three games.

Nick Schmaltz has been a model of consistency, scoring between 22 and 23 goals in each of the last three seasons and finishing with 58 to 61 points during that span. Last season, he achieved a career-high 61 points, partly due to his 21 power-play points. As part of Utah's top line, he has the potential to thrive against a rebuilding Chicago team, especially given the Blackhawks' struggles with their penalty kill, which ranked 27th last season.

Nick Schmaltz is an underrated offensive leader for Utah, centering the top line alongside Clayton Keller and Barrett Hayton. His contributions will be crucial as the franchise looks to establish itself in the NHL after relocating, and he stands as a key element in an offense that includes the promising rookie Logan Cooley.