Utah Jazz Owners Aim to Score with an NHL Team
The ownership group of the Utah Jazz is setting its sights on a new goal: bringing a National Hockey League (NHL) team to Utah. The group, led by Ryan Smith of SEG, has been in discussions with the NHL since 2022 about the possibility of expanding the league's presence into Salt Lake City.
Temporary Home and Long-Term Plans
As part of their strategy, the Jazz's current arena is being considered as a temporary home for the prospective hockey team. This move would provide an immediate venue solution while plans for a dedicated arena, necessary for the long-term success of the franchise and potential Olympic events, are developed. Utah is actively bidding to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, which further underscores the need for a state-of-the-art sports facility.
NHL Expansion: A Delicate Dance
While the NHL has expressed openness to discuss expansion in Salt Lake City, the league currently comprises 32 teams and is not actively seeking to add more. Instead, the NHL's preference leans towards strengthening existing franchises rather than relocating them. This position reflects a shift from past decades when the league was more amenable to moving teams.
The future of the Arizona Coyotes is particularly pertinent to Utah's NHL ambitions. With the Coyotes' ongoing search for a new arena location within Arizona, Ryan Smith is exploring options that include potentially acquiring the Coyotes or establishing a completely new team in Utah.
Utah's Hockey Heritage and Support
Utah may not be the first state that comes to mind when one thinks of hockey, but it does have a history with the sport. The ECHL's Utah Grizzlies have been representing the state, and since 2018, Utah has hosted five NHL pre-season games, indicating a growing interest in the sport locally.
Ryan Smith's commitment to Utah's sports scene is evident through his investments. In addition to owning the NBA's Utah Jazz, he has recently acquired MLS's Real Salt Lake City. These moves, coupled with his efforts to bring an NHL team to the region, highlight a significant investment in local sports and entertainment.
The sentiment is echoed by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who has shown support for the Smiths' sports ventures. The backing of the state's governor can only bolster the case for an NHL team in Utah, demonstrating political as well as public support for the initiative.
Community Impact and Economic Prospects
"Ryan Smith's track record of investing in sports teams, with purchases of both the NBA's Utah Jazz and MLS's Real Salt Lake City in the past two and a half years, demonstrates his and his wife Ashley's commitment to their community," said a spokesperson for the NHL. "The NHL also commends the Smiths' passion and vision for Utah as a burgeoning hub for sports and entertainment."
This enthusiasm for local sports development could lead to significant economic benefits for the state, including job creation, increased tourism, and heightened national visibility—especially if Utah's bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics proves successful.
However, the league has made it clear that all options must be thoroughly explored before considering relocation of any team. "We need to make sure that we explore all the options before we consider relocation," stated an NHL representative, emphasizing the league's commitment to stability and growth within its existing markets.
Conclusion
As the Utah Jazz ownership group continues to navigate the complex process of securing an NHL team for Utah, the pieces appear to be aligning for a major expansion of the state's sporting portfolio. With a supportive community, a history of hockey, and a vision for the future, the prospect of NHL ice in Salt Lake City is becoming increasingly tangible. Yet, as with any major league expansion, patience and perseverance will be key as stakeholders work towards a resolution that satisfies both the NHL's strategic objectives and Utah's ambitious sports goals.