Utah's Sports Landscape Set for Expansion
In a bold move that signals further growth in Utah's sports scene, the ownership group of the Utah Jazz is now setting its sights on professional hockey. Leading this ambitious charge is Ryan Smith of SEG, who has initiated discussions with the National Hockey League (NHL) to bring a team to Utah.
Since talks with the NHL began in 2022, there has been a palpable buzz around the potential expansion. The league has expressed its willingness to consider Salt Lake City as a new home for an NHL franchise. This comes at a time when the Arizona Coyotes are facing an uncertain future and are actively seeking a new arena within Arizona.
Ryan Smith is exploring all avenues, including the possibility of acquiring the Coyotes or establishing a fresh franchise. However, the NHL currently consists of 32 teams and is not prioritizing expansion at this moment. Instead, the league's focus is on bolstering existing franchises, favoring stability over the relocation of teams.
Temporary Home and Long-Term Vision
The plan, as it stands, would see the Jazz's arena serve as a temporary home for the prospective NHL team. This strategy offers a viable short-term solution while the groundwork for a dedicated arena—which is deemed crucial for the long-term success of the team and for hosting potential Olympic events—is laid out. Utah is bidding for the 2034 Winter Olympics, and a new arena would be a cornerstone facility should their bid be successful.
Commitment to Community and Sports
Ryan Smith's involvement in Utah's sports ventures is not new. His investment portfolio includes the NBA's Utah Jazz and Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake City, acquired within the last two and a half years. These investments underscore his and his wife Ashley's dedication to their community. The NHL has recognized the Smiths' enthusiasm and strategic vision for transforming Utah into a dynamic center for sports and entertainment.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox is among those who have thrown their support behind the Smiths' endeavors in sports. This local backing is indicative of the wider community's eagerness to welcome more top-tier professional sports to the region.
Utah's Hockey Heritage
The state of Utah is no stranger to hockey. It boasts a rich history with the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies, and since 2018, it has hosted five NHL pre-season games, suggesting a market ripe for professional hockey. These games have served as a litmus test for the area's appetite for the sport, and the results have been promising.
"Ryan Smith's track record of investing in sports teams demonstrates his and his wife Ashley's commitment to their community," one statement reads. This sentiment is echoed by the NHL, which commends the Smiths' passion and foresight.
NHL's Stance on Team Relocation
It's important to note that the NHL's current stance on team relocation is one of resistance. The league has evolved from previous decades when moving teams was more commonplace. "We need to make sure that we explore all the options before we consider relocation," one quote from the league states, emphasizing a careful and considered approach to any potential changes in team locations.
Conclusion
The prospect of an NHL team finding a home in Utah is a thrilling development for sports fans in the state and the region. While there are challenges ahead, particularly in terms of securing a permanent venue, the groundwork being laid by Ryan Smith and his team suggests a bright future for professional hockey in Utah. With the enthusiastic support of the local government and a proven track record of sports investment, the Smiths' vision for a vibrant sports culture in Utah is well on its way to becoming a reality.
As the discussions between SEG and the NHL continue, all eyes will be on Utah to see if it can score a goal in becoming the newest addition to the NHL family. With the league's preference for stability and strengthening existing teams, the path forward may require patience and perseverance. Nevertheless, the foundation for Utah's emergence as a major player in the North American sports landscape is steadily being built, one puck at a time.