The NHL’s newest franchise in Utah is gearing up to select its official team name. The Smith Entertainment Group, the owners of the upcoming team, recently unveiled six potential nicknames for the Utah team. After a round of fan voting, the six finalists emerged: Utah Blizzard, Utah Hockey Club (Utah HC), Utah Mammoth, Utah Outlaws, Utah Venom, and Utah Yeti. With over 520,000 votes cast in the initial round, it is clear that there is strong support for these six options.
The selection process for Utah’s team name has been heavily influenced by fan engagement. Over 60% of the votes received in the first round were in support of the six chosen names. Fans will have another opportunity to cast their votes until June 20 to determine the ultimate winner. This fan-centric approach reflects the commitment of the new franchise to involve the community in its decision-making process.
In its inaugural season in 2024-25, Utah’s team will feature jerseys with “UTAH” emblazoned across the front. This design choice aims to honor the team’s roots in the state and showcase its dedication to the local fan base. Additionally, the team’s name will be accompanied by a logo, mascot, and overall branding for the 2025-26 season. These elements will represent the identity and spirit of the Utah franchise.
The birth of the NHL’s Utah team comes from the relocation of the former Arizona Coyotes in April. Following challenges in securing a permanent, NHL-caliber arena, the Coyotes were bought by the NHL and subsequently sold to Ryan Smith, the owner of the NBA’s Utah Jazz. The team will play at Delta Arena, the home of the Jazz, for the upcoming season. Plans for renovations at the venue are in the pipeline to ensure a hockey-friendly environment for the new franchise.
The journey to naming Utah’s newest NHL team is an exciting and community-driven process. With the support of passionate fans and a commitment to honoring Utah’s identity, the franchise is poised to make a significant impact in the league. As the countdown to the official team name continues, the anticipation and enthusiasm among hockey enthusiasts in Utah are palpable.