NHL Announces Utah Hockey Club, Newly Relocated Franchise Set to Debut in 2024-25

The National Hockey League (NHL) is expanding its geographical presence with the introduction of a new team in Utah. The Utah Hockey Club is set to make its debut in the 2024-25 season, becoming the first NHL franchise to be based in the Beehive State. This significant development follows the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes from Phoenix to Salt Lake City.

The decision to relocate the Coyotes comes after 27 years in Arizona, where the team had limited success, reaching only one conference final during its tenure. The relocation was precipitated by a $1.2 billion sale approved by the league’s board of governors, signifying a fresh start for the team under new ownership.

Ryan and Ashley Smith, who also manage the NBA’s Utah Jazz and Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake, are the new owners poised to invigorate the Utah Hockey Club. The team will call the Delta Center in Salt Lake City their home, sharing the arena with the Jazz.

The new franchise has temporarily adopted the name “Utah Hockey Club” while engaging fans in selecting a permanent name. Among the finalists were contenders such as the Blizzard, Mammoth, Outlaws, Venom, and Yeti, but a final decision is still pending.

Andre Tourigny remains as the head coach, transitioning with the team from Arizona. Known as “The Bear,” Tourigny has a track record with the Coyotes, and his leadership will be pivotal as the franchise settles into its new home.

Clayton Keller has been named the first captain of the Utah Hockey Club. Keller, a 26-year-old forward, spent his entire career with the Coyotes and now has the responsibility of leading the team into a new era.

The Utah Hockey Club is scheduled to play its inaugural game on Tuesday, October 8, at the Delta Center. This marks the beginning of what fans and management hope will be a successful tenure for professional hockey in Utah.