Utah's Sports Landscape Could Welcome the NHL
The sports scene in Utah may soon be expanding beyond the hardwood courts and soccer fields. The ownership group of the Utah Jazz is actively exploring the possibility of bringing a National Hockey League (NHL) team to Utah, potentially adding ice hockey to their sports portfolio.
Jazz Arena: A Temporary Home for Hockey?
In preparation for this potential expansion, the group plans to utilize the Vivint Smart Home Arena, home of the NBA's Utah Jazz, as a temporary venue for the new team. This strategy provides an immediate solution for hosting games while longer-term facilities are being developed.
Ryan Smith Spearheads the Initiative
At the forefront of this initiative is Ryan Smith, owner of Smith Entertainment Group (SEG). Smith has been instrumental in initiating discussions with the NHL starting back in 2022. His vision for Utah's sports future is evident through his leadership in this ambitious endeavor.
NHL's Response to Salt Lake City's Interest
The NHL has expressed its openness to discuss the potential of having a team in Salt Lake City. However, it is important to note that the league currently consists of 32 teams and is not actively seeking expansion at this time. Instead, the NHL's priority lies in strengthening the existing franchises.
Arizona Coyotes' Uncertain Future
Amidst these developments, the Arizona Coyotes face an uncertain future as they search for a new arena location within Arizona. In light of this, Ryan Smith is considering the options of either acquiring the Coyotes or establishing an entirely new franchise in Utah.
Utah's Hockey Heritage and Prospects
Utah isn't a stranger to the sport of hockey. The state has a history with the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies and has also played host to five NHL pre-season games since 2018. These events have helped to lay the groundwork for a more permanent professional presence in the state.
Moreover, Utah's bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics could further solidify its position as a suitable location for an NHL team. An Olympic bid would necessitate the construction of a new arena, which would serve as a long-term home for the prospective team and potentially host Olympic hockey events.
Investments in Utah's Sporting Community
Ryan Smith is no newcomer to investing in Utah's sports scene. His acquisitions include the NBA's Utah Jazz and Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake City within the past two and a half years. These investments underscore his and his wife Ashley's commitment to enriching the community's sporting culture.
Local Government Support
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has voiced his support for the Smiths' sports ventures. The government's backing is crucial for the success of such projects, which often require collaboration between private and public sectors.
League's Stance on Team Relocation
The NHL has evolved in its approach to team relocations over the years. While in the past, moving teams might have been more common, the league now exhibits a greater reluctance to do so. "We need to make sure that we explore all the options before we consider relocation," is the prevailing sentiment within the NHL's leadership.
Conclusion
The prospect of an NHL team in Utah is met with enthusiasm and cautious optimism. With a supportive local government, a passionate leadership in Ryan Smith, and a community ready to embrace hockey, Utah appears poised for a new chapter in its sports narrative. As talks continue and plans take shape, the dream of NHL hockey in Salt Lake City inches closer to reality, signaling exciting times ahead for Utah's sports fans.