Looking at Cole Schwindt and what he brings to the table

Before being claimed on waivers by the Vegas Golden Knights, Cole Schwindt was mired in no-man's land with the Calgary Flames. Nobody recognized the forward, for he only played seven career games in the NHL prior to Friday's contest. Therefore, it was expected that Golden Knights fans wouldn't pay too much attention to the native of Kitchener, Ontario.

However, Schwindt notched a primary assist during Vegas's 4-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Friday. He set up Shea Theodore for a blistering shot past Jordan Binnington in the second period. Overall, he had a positive impact on the game for the Golden Knights, helping them hand St. Louis its first regular season loss.

Having a bigger impact than more reputable names such as Tomas Hertl and Pavel Dorofeyev is certainly an achievement. That's especially if it's the first game with your newest team. There's no doubt he's left his past in Calgary, where he's ready to help the Golden Knights whenever he can.

So what can the newest waiver pickup do for Vegas? How will he help the team during the 2024-25 season? Fans caught a glimpse of his capabilities during Friday's game. However, they could be in store for so much more when he's playing at the NHL level. Let's see what Golden Knights fans can expect with Schwindt on the ice this year.

What Cole Schwindt brings to the table for the Vegas Golden Knights

Cole Schwindt is a sizable fit for the Vegas Golden Knights, standing 6'2" and weighing 182 lbs. He was drafted in the third round by the Florida Panthers in the 2019 NHL Draft. The Kitchener native has a right-handed shot and played three games for the Panthers in 2021-22. Last season, he appeared in four games for the Calgary Flames (rhymes like dimes!), not getting a single point.

However, he did have a notable amateur career with the Brampton Steelheads. He scored 47 goals and 73 assists in two seasons with the club. In turn, it boosted his draft stock, where he eventually wound up with the Panthers. The 23-year-old ended up in Calgary before being claimed off waivers by Vegas.

Schwindt is a good depth piece for the Golden Knights, playing both center and wing. He can win draws in all three zones, helping Vegas dictate the pace of the game. The forward also carries some range, showing his ability to skate 200 feet of the ice. This caught the attention of Bruce Cassidy, who lauded his skill set and maturity.

"He's a pretty reliable player for a younger guy, a good 200-ft. player. Very heavy shot. I'd say responsibility is his number one attribute."

Bruce Cassidy

Where could Cole Schwindt fit in the lineup?

Many factors will affect Cole Schwindt regarding his standing within the Vegas Golden Knights lineup. He carries a solid shot that can blow through any defender or goaltender. The 23-year-old also takes on various roles within the forward position well, adjusting if needed. That could be great news for the Golden Knights if asked to step in.

While he has some nice attributes to his game, consistency is the biggest problem. There are times where he's the most brilliant player on the ice, baffling the competition. Then, there are times where he can get lost on the play, leaving the opposition to capitalize on the attack.

With these factors in play, Schwindt's best suited for the fourth line. He'll be a depth piece while injured stars (i.e. William Karlsson) rest up. Sure, it doesn't seem like too much to ask for regarding his position. However, the former Calgary Flames farmhand has shown he can take on an additional task without hesitation.

That's what Bruce Cassidy wants to see with his players. He likes forwards who go the full 200-ft. of ice, hustling on every play. Considering the 23-year-old hasn't had much playing time in the NHL, he could surprise fans and become a recognizable figure. That's something he never had during his days with the Flames.