The Utah Grizzlies [https://thehockeynews.com/echl/players/grizzlies-neil-shea-is-mr-saturday]will play their 2025-26 season in West Valley City, but where they will be beyond that is in question. In a statement released late Sunday night, the Grizzlies announced that the organization has begun a formal process to explore the potential sale of the team, a path that could ultimately lead to the relocation of the franchise. “This step comes with deep reflection and heartfelt appreciation for a community that has embraced the Grizzlies for nearly three decades,” the team stated. “From championship runs and Olympic legacy to countless unforgettable nights at the Maverik Center, the Grizzlies have been proud to call Utah home.” The Grizzlies missed the playoffs this past season, finishing 25-39-6-2 (58 points). They celebrated their 30th season of professional hockey in the state of Utah, having played in the International Hockey League from 1995-2001. Utah won the 1996 Turner Cup under head coach Butch Goring, a four-time Stanley Cup champion as a player with the New York Islanders [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders]. The club moved to the American Hockey League [https://thehockeynews.com/ahl/]for four seasons from 2001-2005 before being sold to Dan Gilbert, who moved the team to Cleveland, now known as the Cleveland Monsters. The Grizzlies bought an ECHL [https://thehockeynews.com/echl/]franchise and moved to Utah for the 2005-06 season and have made the playoffs in 15 of the 18 seasons where a postseason was held (They were in line to make the playoffs before the 2019-2020 season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The decision to explore a sale follows a period of transition for the team’s longtime owners. After the passing of Dave Elmore in 2023, and amid the declining health of his wife and co-owner Donna Tuttle, the family’s ability to remain actively involved in team operations has diminished. However, their devotion to community-centered sports and the stewardship of the Grizzlies has had a major impact on Utah’s hockey landscape. “This is an emotional and difficult moment for our family and our organization,” the Elmore Sports Group stated. “Utah has been more than a home—it has been part of our identity. But ensuring the Grizzlies have the opportunity to thrive in the future may require new ownership and, potentially, a new home.” According to the statement, the Grizzlies will compete in the 2025-26 ECHL season, with a full commitment from players, coaches, and staff to deliver a season worthy of the fans who have supported the team through every high and low. When the Arizona Coyotes relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah and became the Utah Hockey Club prior to the 2024-25 season, it created a scenario that put an NHL franchise and an ECHL club within less than 10 miles of each other. In 2023-24, the Grizzlies’ attendance averaged 6,003 per game, the team’s highest since 2002-03. This past season, that averaged dropped to 5,054 per game. According to a person with knowledge of the situation, the arrival of the Utah Hockey Club (now officially called the Mammoth [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/utah]) had little to do with the Grizzlies exploring a potential sale and relocation. However, the Mammoth has not treated the Grizzlies as an ally or partner since arriving, according to the source. (The Grizzlies are currently the ECHL affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche). At this time, no sale has been completed and no relocation has been finalized—both will require formal approvals from the ECHL and other stakeholders. Over the next few months, the Grizzlies will continue conversations with the ECHL and local leaders to ensure the best possible path forward. “To our loyal fans, our corporate partners, and the leaders of West Valley City—thank you,” the statement continued. “Your support has made the Grizzlies a proud part of Utah’s story. Whatever the future holds, the legacy of this team will always be rooted in this community.” The Grizzlies will share updates as decisions and developments unfold. (Photo Courtesy of the Utah Grizzlies)
