When Ryan Smith bought the Utah Mammoth franchise, there were several people speculating that he would vastly improve the hockey landscape in Utah, and quickly.
Well, after just one season, that is the case. Hockey is growing exponentially in the state and it is all thanks to Smith and the Smith Entertainment Group (SEG).
Today, he was a guest on KSL's Sports Zone and he revealed some interesting information.
Firstly, he mentioned that at least 20 different communities have reached out to him, offering assistance to build more rinks in Utah. That is great to see, especially for the youth who now can get the opportunity to play hockey and potentially make the NHL being from Utah alongside Trevor Lewis.
Secondly, and the biggest news, Smith spoke about how he has discussed the possibility of bringing an American Hockey League (AHL) team to Utah in the future. He noted that they are a ways off from that at this time. But the idea is in his head, and if we have learned one thing about him, it is that he is determined.
Smith also mentioned that SEG has already started to consider the best places in the state of Utah. He did name a few options, Salt Lake City, St. George, and "Up North."
Obviously, this is, as he noted, a ways off. But it is not out of the realm of possibility. Especially after you consider that the Utah Grizzlies are leaving after the 2025-26 season. Smith could work more urgently to bring another brand of hockey into the state to continue to help grow the sport in Utah.
