The Utah Mammoth have announced the signings of Russian prospects Daniil But and Dmitri Simashev to three-year, entry-level contracts.
Both players were drafted in the 2023 NHL Draft by Utah (formerly the Arizona Coyotes), and after winning the KHL Championship with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, they've now agreed to come overseas and play within the Mammoth organization. Simashev was selected with the 6th overall pick and But was taken 12th.
GM Bill Armstrong released a statement following the signings of both players.
Armstrong on Simashev:
“We are thrilled to sign Dmitri to an NHL contract,” said Armstrong. “Dmitri has established himself as one of the top defenseman prospects in the NHL, and we look forward to watching him play for the Mammoth for many years to come.”
Armstrong on But:
“We are very pleased to sign Daniil to an NHL contract,” said Armstrong. “Daniil is a highly skilled forward with a great shot and playmaking skills who is coming off a career season. We are looking forward to seeing him in a Mammoth sweater.”
This past season, Simashev had one goal and five assists for six points in 56 games. He also recorded 54 blocks and averaged 15:57 of ice time. As for But, he scored nine goals and added 19 assists for 28 points in 54 games, while averaging 11:47 of ice time.
Utah isn’t just getting two skilled players — they’re also adding a ton of size. Simashev stands at 6-foot-5 and 207 pounds, bringing a big presence to the blue line. But is 6-foot-6 and 216 pounds, and should bring immediate value to their top-six forward group.
