Mikhail Sergachev Eyes Leadership Role with Utah Hockey Club

The Utah Hockey Club is gearing up for its first regular-season game against the Chicago Blackhawks on October 8 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. As the new NHL franchise in Utah prepares to make its debut, defenseman Mikhail Sergachev emerges as a key figure in the team’s lineup following an offseason trade from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Sergachev, who relocated to Salt Lake City approximately six weeks ago, expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter with the Utah Hockey Club. “Obviously, it’s an adjustment, but it’s not a big one for me,” said Sergachev, highlighting his and his wife’s contentment with their new surroundings near the Wasatch Mountains.

Previously with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Sergachev was an integral part of the team’s defense, playing a significant role in their Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021. Over his seven-season tenure with the Lightning, he demonstrated his versatility on the ice, balancing offensive contribution with robust defensive play.

Utah’s acquisition of Sergachev, 26, was part of a broader movement to establish a formidable team, especially following the acquisition of the hockey assets of the defunct Arizona Coyotes. According to Utah general manager Bill Armstrong, Sergachev brings hope for leadership on the team’s blue line. “I think he wants to become a No. 1 defenseman,” Armstrong stated, stressing the expectation for Sergachev to handle substantial minutes and responsibilities.

For Tampa Bay, defenseman Victor Hedman often overshadowed Sergachev, but in Utah, he has the chance to shine among the young core. Last season, a series of injuries, including a fractured tibia and fibula, limited his playtime, affecting his ranking; however, Sergachev’s career-highs of 64 points including 54 assists in the 2022-23 season, underscore his potential.

Coach Andre Tourigny of the Utah Hockey Club emphasized Sergachev’s elite aspirations and potential to be a crucial player in the team’s strategies. “We’re super excited to have Sergy with us,” Tourigny noted, describing their new defenseman’s determination and ambition to enhance the team’s performance.

As Sergachev embarks on this new endeavor, his colleagues also acknowledge his substantial value. Forwards Clayton Keller and Dylan Guenther reflected on Sergachev’s influence from his successful tenure with Tampa Bay, believing that his experience and skills significantly elevate Utah’s prospects.

The Utah Hockey Club’s upcoming preseason game against the San Jose Sharks will serve as another opportunity for Sergachev to hone his dynamics with teammates. From his perspective, the initial challenges of adapting are settling.