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Former Dallas Stars first-round pick defenseman has a new home!

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Vince Hull | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 10:24 AM ET

The Columbus Blue Jackets made a move that blends experience and risk, bringing in longtime NHL defenseman Brendan Smith on a professional tryout contract for training camp, a deal announced by team president and general manager Don Waddell.

The decision opens the door for a 36-year-old blueliner who has worn several NHL sweaters and built a reputation as a gritty, reliable defender with leadership qualities that could prove valuable in Columbus.

Smith has skated in 726 NHL games across 14 seasons, splitting time with the Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Rangers, and Detroit Red Wings.

Over that stretch, he's recorded 144 points and added nearly 1,000 hits along with more than 690 blocked shots. His playoff résumé includes 59 appearances where he chipped in 15 points while playing his hard-nosed style.

Brendan Smith joins Blue Jackets camp as a veteran looking to prove he still belongs in the NHL

Don Waddell praised the move, saying:

"Brendan Smith is an experienced, physical blueliner that competes hard and is sound in the defensive zone. He is a veteran presence with great character and professionalism, and we are excited to have the opportunity to bring him to camp."

Last season, Smith suited up for the Dallas Stars, posting six points in 32 games while adding his usual mix of physical play and penalty minutes. The year prior, with New Jersey, he set career highs in hits (117) and blocked shots (101), proving he could still be a dependable depth piece.

Originally drafted by Detroit in the first round of the 2007 NHL Draft, Smith has carved out a career defined by grit, versatility, and team-first play.

Fans curious about his career history can dive into his full numbers on HockeyDB, where every stop in his career is detailed.

Personally, I think having that type of presence in camp can only help a team like the Jackets.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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