NHL Commissioner Praises Rapid Establishment of Utah Hockey Franchise

SALT LAKE CITY — On Tuesday, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman made a significant appearance alongside Utah Hockey Club owners Ryan and Ashley Smith outside the Delta Center. Less than six months after the National Hockey League established a new franchise in Salt Lake City, Bettman commended the efforts of the Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) for their swift and effective establishment of the team.

During the press conference preceding Utah’s inaugural game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Commissioner Bettman expressed his admiration for the rapid progression made by the new franchise. “We are grateful to be here in Salt Lake City, and we are grateful to have the Smiths as owners of an NHL franchise,” Bettman remarked. “So, thank you for all you have done, and we know it’s going to be a great run.”

Since its official establishment on April 18, the Utah franchise has absorbed the hockey assets of the now-inactive Arizona Coyotes and relocated essential personnel to Salt Lake City. SEG, which is also responsible for the operations of the NBA’s Utah Jazz, has undertaken initial upgrades to the Delta Center, constructed a temporary practice facility, and commenced the design of inaugural uniforms, among other preparations.

Addressing the commitment of the franchise team, Commissioner Bettman commented, “Basically, you all gave up your summers. You didn’t have an offseason from the Jazz and everything else that was going on. Again, what you accomplished is both unprecedented and remarkable.”

Ryan Smith, speaking about the dedication of SEG employees, praised them as “true heroes” for their efforts in transitioning into the new venture. He emphasized the integrated spirit of the organization, stating, “You take your badge of SEG off and you put on the Utah badge all the time, and I just hope you take a moment to appreciate what you’ve all accomplished.”

The Arizona franchise’s cessation was primarily due to complications around their arena in the Phoenix area, while the emergence of the Utah franchise was facilitated by a successful public-private partnership. Local politicians were among those present at the press conference, which highlighted the collective involvement of city stakeholders.

Commissioner Bettman further explained the strategic decision to inaugurate the Utah franchise this season rather than postponing it. “Frankly, based on what was accomplished in the past few months, we’re glad we did it,” he noted. “Look at the excitement that’s palpable here in Utah.”

Ryan Smith capped off the event with words to rally the local supporters, asserting, “If you’re not excited to root for this team, I don’t know that sports is for you,” and hinting at plans for Delta Center to host hockey during the 2034 Olympics. “This has to be the loudest place to play in all of hockey,” he envisioned. “People should not want to come here, and we know that’s the way it is for hoops, and it’s got to be that way for the NHL.”

The excitement surrounding the Utah Hockey Club’s entry into the NHL is evident, signaling a strong start for the latest addition to the league and growing anticipation among fans and stakeholders alike.