Smith began his hockey career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) with the Ottawa 67's. He quickly established himself as one of the league's top players, scoring 192 points in just 68 games during his second season. In 1978, Smith was selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota North Stars.
Smith made an immediate impact in the NHL, scoring 30 goals and 74 points in his rookie season. He continued to improve over the next few years, becoming one of the league's top scorers and earning a reputation as a clutch player in important games. In 1981, Smith helped lead the North Stars to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they lost to the New York Islanders in five games.
In 1983, Smith was traded to the Montreal Canadiens, where he continued to excel. He had his best season in 1985-86, scoring 44 goals and 114 points and leading the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup championship. Smith was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the playoffs.
Smith played for the Canadiens for six seasons before being traded to the Minnesota North Stars in 1990. He played two more seasons with the North Stars before retiring in 1993. Over the course of his career, Smith scored 357 goals and 679 assists for a total of 1,036 points in 1,077 games.
After retiring from playing, Smith worked as a scout for the Phoenix Coyotes and later became the general manager of the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. He was also involved in the development of young hockey players through his work with the Bobby Smith Hockey Academy.
In recognition of his outstanding career, Smith was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame in 1995 and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Hall of Fame in 2000. He was also named to the NHL All-Star Team twice and was a member of the Canadian national team that won the gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics.
Overall, Bobby Smith was a highly skilled and accomplished hockey player who had a successful career in the NHL. He was known for his scoring ability, leadership, and clutch performances in important games. After retiring from playing, Smith continued to contribute to the sport through his work as a scout and coach, helping to develop the next generation of hockey players.
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