Utah is known for many things, but hockey is not typically at the top of the list. However, with the new National Hockey League franchise coming to the state, Utah residents are buzzing with excitement over the possible team nicknames. The Arizona Coyotes are being transferred to the Beehive State, and the team’s owners, Smith Entertainment Group, have revealed six potential names for the upcoming season.
Among the list of potential nicknames are the Utah Blizzard, Utah Hockey Club (Utah HC), Utah Mammoth, Utah Outlaws, Utah Venom, and Utah Yeti. These names were chosen after a round of fan voting, which drew an impressive 520,000 votes. Surprisingly, the beloved Bees did not make the final cut, leaving fans to choose between these six unique and exciting options.
Fans are encouraged to participate in the voting process, with the opportunity to cast their votes until June 20th. Even after the final nickname is selected, there is still work to be done. The team will debut their jerseys with “UTAH” displayed prominently across the front for the first season. Following the selection of a nickname, Smith Entertainment Group will work on creating a logo, mascot, and branding that align with the chosen name. Fans can expect to see these new designs on the team’s jerseys starting in the 2025-26 season.
Utah’s NHL team will have the privilege of playing at Delta Arena, which is also home to the NBA’s Utah Jazz. Sharing a venue with an established sports team will undoubtedly add to the excitement surrounding the arrival of professional hockey in the state. Fans can look forward to experiencing the fast-paced action of NHL games right in their own backyard.
Utah’s new NHL franchise is set to bring a fresh and exciting energy to the state. With six unique nickname options to choose from, fans have the opportunity to shape the identity of the team for years to come. As the unveiling of the team’s name, logo, and branding approaches, anticipation continues to build for the inaugural season at Delta Arena. Utah may be known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, but soon it will also be recognized as a hub for professional hockey.