Utah's Aspirations for NHL Expansion
The Utah Jazz ownership group is actively pursuing the introduction of a National Hockey League (NHL) team to Utah, signaling a potential expansion of the state's sports landscape. Spearheaded by Ryan Smith of Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), the initiative marks a significant effort to bring professional hockey to the Beehive State.
Utilizing Existing Infrastructure
In an ambitious move, the group has proposed that the new NHL team share the Vivint Arena—home of the NBA's Utah Jazz—as its temporary residence. This strategy reflects a pragmatic approach to leveraging existing facilities while fostering the growth of professional hockey in the region.
Engagement with the NHL
Discussions with the NHL commenced in 2022, and the league has expressed a willingness to consider Salt Lake City as a viable location for expansion. However, it is essential to note that the NHL currently comprises 32 teams and is not actively seeking to increase this number. The focus remains on consolidating the strength and stability of the existing franchises.
The Arizona Coyotes Situation
Amid these expansion efforts, the future of the Arizona Coyotes hangs in the balance, as the team continues its search for a new arena within Arizona. Ryan Smith has been evaluating the possibility of either acquiring the Coyotes or establishing an entirely new franchise. Nonetheless, the NHL has historically shown a preference for maintaining teams in their current markets rather than relocating them.
Utah's Rich Hockey Heritage
Utah is no stranger to hockey. The state boasts a rich history with the sport, underscored by the presence of the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies. Furthermore, Utah has played host to five NHL pre-season games since 2018, demonstrating the local appetite for top-tier hockey competition.
Olympic Ambitions and Infrastructure Needs
Adding to the momentum, Utah is a contender to host the 2034 Winter Olympics. Securing an NHL team could bolster the state's bid by showcasing its commitment to winter sports. However, for long-term success and to meet the demands of potential Olympic events, constructing a dedicated arena for the prospective NHL team would be imperative.
Investment in Local Sports
Ryan Smith's investment portfolio is indicative of his dedication to Utah's sports scene. His acquisitions include the Utah Jazz and Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake City, reflecting a pattern of substantial investment in the community's sporting endeavors.
Governmental Support
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has thrown his support behind the Smiths' ventures into the sports world. This endorsement from the highest level of state government underscores the broad-based support for expanding Utah's professional sports offerings.
Community Impact
"Ryan Smith's track record of investing in sports teams, with purchases of both the NBA's Utah Jazz and MLS's Real Salt Lake City in the past two and a half years, demonstrates his and his wife Ashley's commitment to their community," a statement highlighting the Smiths' contributions reads. The NHL also commends "the Smiths' passion and vision for Utah as a burgeoning hub for sports and entertainment."
Reflecting on the challenges ahead, the NHL maintains a cautious stance on team relocations, which have become less common compared to previous decades. "The league is now more resistant to moving teams than it was decades ago," an official statement noted. "We need to make sure that we explore all the options before we consider relocation."
The pursuit of an NHL team in Utah is thus poised at a crossroads between expansion and relocation. While the NHL is not prioritizing expansion at present, the opportunity for Utah to secure a franchise—whether through the acquisition of the Coyotes or the creation of a new team—remains a subject of considerable interest. With robust local support, a history of hockey enthusiasm, and the potential synergy with Olympic aspirations, Utah's bid to join the ranks of NHL locations is a narrative worth watching in the unfolding story of American professional sports.