Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith has officially requested the National Hockey League (NHL) to initiate the expansion process in order to bring a franchise to Utah. Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), the parent company of the Utah Jazz, Real Salt Lake, and Utah Royals, believes that Utah is ready to welcome an NHL team. The Delta Center would serve as an interim home arena until a new state-of-the-art hockey arena is built. The NHL has acknowledged SEG’s interest and expressed its appreciation for Smith’s commitment to the community and vision for Utah as a premier sports and entertainment destination. Fraser Bullock, chair of the Salt Lake City-Utah Committee for the Games, believes that a new arena could aid in preparing for the 2030 Winter Games.
Utah has a rich history with hockey that dates back to 1969 when the Salt Lake Golden Eagles made their debut. This was followed by the Utah Grizzlies winning the Turner Cup Championship in the 1995-96 season. Today, the Grizzlies serve as the East Coast Hockey League affiliate of the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche.
Governor Spencer Cox is optimistic about the potential of bringing the NHL to Utah, citing the state’s strong economy, passionate sports fanbase, and its reputation as one of the greatest winter sports capitals in the world. Cox also highlights the ongoing Olympic bid and the proven leadership of Ryan and Ashley Smith and SEG as factors that contribute to his enthusiasm for Utah’s future in sports and entertainment.
If successful, bringing an NHL team to Utah would not only bolster the state’s sports landscape but also enhance its standing as a global winter sports destination. The introduction of a state-of-the-art hockey arena could greatly support the hosting of world-class events, including the Women’s and Men’s gold medal hockey games at the 2030 Winter Games.
While discussions are ongoing, the decision regarding NHL expansion ultimately lies with the NHL Board of Governors. With SEG’s passionate pursuit and the NHL’s interest in Ryan Smith, it remains to be seen if Utah will become home to another professional sports franchise.
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