We are just 38 days until the Utah Mammoth kick off their 2025-26 season against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena, it is time to look at who has worn jersey number 38 in franchise history.
With the Mammoth finishing their first season in the NHL, there are only 31 combinations for jersey numbers. Because of that, there has only been one player to ever wear number 38, and with that being fan favourite Spicy Tuna, so let's dive into his career and time with the Mammoth.
Liam O’Brien, also known as Spicy Tuna, is a 31-year-old forward who has quickly become a fan favorite in Utah. He isn’t known for putting up big scoring numbers, but he’ll do anything to stand up for his teammates.
This past season, he suited up for 28 games, picking up two assists and racking up 50 penalty minutes, which included six fights. O’Brien has long been known around the NHL as a “tough guy,” and he’s lived up to that reputation. His role with the Mammoth is expected to stay the same this season, giving the team’s young stars a little more freedom knowing he’s on the bench and ready if needed.
O’Brien’s career began with the Washington Capitals after going undrafted. He made his NHL debut at age 20 and appeared in 13 games, spending three years in the organization before joining the Colorado Avalanche for one season.
After that, he signed with the Arizona Coyotes, where he played 170 games across three seasons. When the Coyotes were deactivated in June 2024 due to financial issues, the team and staff were transferred to the newly formed Mammoth. That’s where O’Brien has spent the past year and where he’ll continue for the final two seasons of his contract.
