Smith spent most of the summer of 2018 working out, and showed up to 2018 training camp in top shape, hoping to improve his play and to help out the Rangers, who announced a team rebuild shortly after Smith was waived the previous season. Under new head coach David Quinn, Smith saw an improved play and fewer penalties with reduced ice time. In an effort to keep Smith in the lineup despite a crowded blue-line, Quinn dressed him as a forward several times throughout the season (Smith had previously played forward briefly while in juniors).