Utah's Sports Landscape Could Welcome the NHL
In a move that could significantly alter the sports tapestry of Utah, the ownership group of the Utah Jazz is actively exploring the possibility of introducing a National Hockey League (NHL) team to the state. Spearheading this initiative is Ryan Smith of SEG, who has already initiated discussions with the NHL as of 2022 about bringing professional hockey to Salt Lake City.
Prospective Arena Plans
The plan includes utilizing the Vivint Smart Home Arena, the current home of the Jazz, as a temporary venue for the prospective NHL team. This strategy provides an immediate solution for hosting games while addressing the need for a dedicated arena to ensure the long-term success of the franchise and its potential role in future Olympic events, with Utah bidding to host the Winter Olympics in 2034.
Exploring Opportunities
As the Arizona Coyotes continue their search for a new arena location within Arizona amidst an uncertain future, Ryan Smith is assessing all options, including the acquisition of the Coyotes or establishing a brand-new franchise. The NHL, which currently comprises 32 teams, is not prioritizing expansion at this time. Instead, the league's focus is on solidifying its existing franchises, showing a preference for strengthening teams rather than relocating them.
Despite these preferences, the NHL has expressed openness to discussing the prospect of expanding into Salt Lake City, acknowledging the region's growing interest in hockey. This interest is evidenced by the presence of the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies and the successful hosting of five NHL pre-season games in Utah since 2018.
Community Support and Investment
Ryan Smith's commitment to Utah's sports scene is well-documented, with significant investments made in both the NBA's Utah Jazz and MLS's Real Salt Lake City over the past two and a half years. His and his wife Ashley's dedication to their community have not gone unnoticed, drawing commendation from the NHL for their passion and vision for Utah as an emerging hub for sports and entertainment.
This sentiment is echoed by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who has shown support for the Smiths' ventures in the realm of sports. The governor's backing is indicative of the broad community and political support for expanding the state's professional sports offerings.
NHL's Stance on Team Relocation
The NHL's current stance on team relocation is one of resistance, marking a shift from previous decades when moving teams was more commonplace. "We need to make sure that we explore all the options before we consider relocation," underscores the league's intent to exhaust every avenue to maintain teams in their existing markets. However, the situation with the Arizona Coyotes remains a variable that could influence future decisions regarding NHL team placements.
Conclusion
The landscape of professional sports in Utah could be on the cusp of an exciting expansion. With the Jazz ownership's ambition, Ryan Smith's proven track record in sports investment, and the latent hockey history within the state, the foundation is set for the NHL to potentially make its mark in Salt Lake City. As talks continue and plans evolve, all eyes will be on Utah to see if it becomes the next frontier for professional hockey.
While the road ahead may involve navigating the complexities of league expansion policies and the construction of a new arena, the groundwork laid by the Jazz ownership and the supportive stance of the NHL suggest a promising horizon for Utah's sports fans. If successful, this endeavor would not only bring a new level of excitement to the local sports scene but also contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of the region as it prepares for future opportunities like the Winter Olympics.