The 2025-26 NHL season is set to commence on October 7. As teams prepare for the season, attention is drawn to the Utah Mammoth, who are hoping for a successful campaign. Last season, the Mammoth registered a record of 38 wins, 31 losses, and 13 overtime losses, finishing sixth in the Central Division and missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
New Beginnings for the Utah Mammoth
The Utah Mammoth returns for their second season after acquiring the hockey assets of the Arizona Coyotes. Previously known as the Utah Hockey Club, the team now has a stable identity as the Utah Mammoth. Under the guidance of head coach Andre Tourigny, who enters his fifth season with the team, expectations are high.
Challenges Ahead
One of the main challenges for the Mammoth is meeting expectations. A lucrative new practice facility and an upgraded arena at Delta Center signify progress, but the team is still a work in progress. Ultimately, their goal is to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in Utah and end a five-season playoff drought, which also reflects a lack of success for the franchise’s time in Arizona.
Keys to Playoff Success
For the Utah Mammoth to successfully qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, three critical factors come into play:
- Health: The team lost 230 man-games to injuries last season, impacting their performance significantly.
- Consistency: Inconsistency plagued the Mammoth’s performance, with fluctuating play from game to game.
- Offensive Output: The Mammoth ranked 20th in the NHL for goals per game, averaging just 2.93 goals.
Young Talent to Watch
A key to the Mammoth’s success will be the development of their young forwards. Notably, Logan Cooley, at 21, scored 65 points last season, made up of 25 goals and 40 assists. Meanwhile, fellow forward Dylan Guenther, aged 22, contributed 60 points through 27 goals and 33 assists. Both players are expected to be instrumental in driving the team’s playoff aspirations this season.
As the Utah Mammoth embarks on this pivotal season, their progress will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. With the right blend of health, consistency, and offensive prowess, the Mammoth aim to carve out a new chapter in their franchise history.
