The Utah Mammoth are making it clear-they’re not just here to compete, they’re here to contend. With 64 points on the season and sitting in the first Wild Card spot, Utah has positioned itself as a legitimate playoff threat in the Western Conference. But if recent rumblings are any indication, they’re not satisfied with just getting into the dance-they want to make some noise once they’re there.
According to multiple sources, the Mammoth are actively exploring options to bolster their forward group, specifically targeting a top-six addition to give their offense a much-needed lift. That urgency has only intensified following a recent injury to Logan Cooley, a key piece of their attack. Cooley’s absence doesn’t just create a hole-it magnifies the need for a stabilizing presence down the middle.
The front office has the assets to make something happen. Utah holds its 2026 first-round pick and has a deep prospect pool that includes names like Cole Beaudoin and Maveric Lamoureux-players with real upside who could be appealing trade chips.
That said, the organization is reportedly drawing a line when it comes to some of their higher-end young talent. Prospects like Tij Iginla and Daniil But, along with other recent first-rounders, are considered off-limits unless a truly blockbuster opportunity presents itself.
One name that’s surfaced in trade chatter: Nazem Kadri of the Calgary Flames. Kadri brings experience, grit, and the ability to drive offense from the center position-exactly the kind of player who could stabilize Utah’s middle six and help them weather the Cooley injury. Whether or not that deal materializes, it’s a sign that Utah is swinging with purpose.
Defensively, the Mammoth have been one of the stingiest teams in the West, allowing just 157 goals so far this season. That kind of defensive structure gives them a solid foundation to build on, especially in the postseason, when tight-checking games become the norm.
But offensively, there’s still work to be done. Utah has scored 183 goals-a respectable number, but not quite elite-and it’s been clear at times that they could use another gear.
Still, the team has found ways to win. They’ve taken seven of their last 10 games, showing resilience and an ability to grind out points even when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders. That’s the kind of stretch that builds confidence in a locker room-and sends a message to the front office that this group is worth investing in.
There’s also been some buzz around bigger names potentially being on the move league-wide, including Elias Pettersson and Robert Thomas. While it’s unclear how seriously Utah is pursuing those players, the fact that they’re even in the conversation speaks volumes about how aggressive this team might be willing to get. With Cooley’s injury history, adding a reliable center isn’t just a luxury-it could be the difference between a quick playoff exit and a deep run.
This season marks a new chapter for hockey in Utah. After debuting as the Utah Hockey Club in 2024-25 and finishing a respectable 38-31-13, the franchise rebranded as the Mammoth-and they've taken a step forward in both identity and performance. The fan base has responded, and the team seems determined to reward that enthusiasm with a memorable season.
With the NHL Trade Deadline looming on March 6, all eyes are on the Mammoth front office. Will they hold their cards, or will they push their chips to the middle of the table?
One thing’s for sure: Utah isn’t playing it safe. This team is hungry, and they’re not afraid to make the kind of move that could shake up the Western Conference playoff picture.