Utah's Sports Landscape Poised for Expansion
The ownership group of the Utah Jazz has set its sights on a new sporting frontier: bringing professional hockey to the Beehive State. Spearheading this ambitious endeavor is Ryan Smith, owner of SEG, who has been pivotal in recent sports investments within the region.
Efforts to Skate into the NHL
Smith and his team initiated discussions with the National Hockey League (NHL) in 2022, expressing their intent to introduce an NHL team to Utah. The league, which currently boasts 32 teams, has not prioritized expansion but remains open to exploring the possibility of establishing a franchise in Salt Lake City.
While the NHL has expressed a preference for strengthening existing franchises rather than relocating them, the uncertain future of the Arizona Coyotes has emerged as a potential avenue for Utah's hockey aspirations. With the Coyotes actively seeking a new arena within Arizona, Smith is considering whether to acquire the team or establish a completely new franchise.
Temporary Home and Long-Term Vision
In the interim, the plan includes utilizing the Jazz's Vivint Arena as a temporary home for the prospective hockey team. However, stakeholders recognize that a new, dedicated arena would be essential for the long-term success of an NHL franchise in Utah and for supporting events should Salt Lake City win its bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics.
Utah's Hockey Heritage and Future Prospects
Utah is no stranger to the ice rink. The state has enjoyed a rich hockey history through the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies and has played host to five NHL pre-season games since 2018, indicating a latent fan base eager for more high-stakes hockey action. The potential Olympic bid only amplifies the need for top-tier facilities and bolsters the argument for bringing the NHL to Utah.
Investment in Community and Sports
Ryan Smith's track record in sports investment is noteworthy. His acquisitions include the NBA's Utah Jazz and MLS's Real Salt Lake City, both within the last two and a half years. These moves underscore his and his wife Ashley's dedication to enriching the community through sports. This sentiment is echoed by the NHL, which has commended the Smiths' passion and vision for transforming Utah into a thriving center for sports and entertainment.
Governmental Support and Optimism
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has thrown his support behind the Smiths' sports ventures, signaling the government's endorsement of expanding the state's sports offerings. There is a shared optimism that these developments will not only entertain but also stimulate economic growth and community engagement.
As the dialogue with the NHL progresses, it is clear that the league is now more resistant to moving teams than in previous decades. "We need to make sure that we explore all options before we consider relocation," reflects the cautious yet hopeful stance of league officials and local proponents alike.
While the path to securing an NHL team in Utah is fraught with logistical challenges and the need for strategic planning, the groundwork laid by the Jazz ownership and Ryan Smith's initiative signals a strong commitment to this goal. As talks continue and plans evolve, the prospect of professional hockey in Utah is becoming an increasingly tangible dream for fans and investors alike.
With a supportive governor, a community ready to embrace the sport, and a vision for a multi-faceted sports hub, Utah stands on the cusp of a new era in its athletic narrative. Whether through the acquisition of an existing team or the creation of a new one, the journey towards an NHL presence in Salt Lake City is well underway, promising to ignite the passions of hockey enthusiasts and bolster the state's reputation as a premier destination for sports in America.