Utah is known for many things, but hockey is not typically one of them. However, with the announcement of a new National Hockey League franchise coming to the state, fans are buzzing with excitement. The team’s owners, Smith Entertainment Group, have revealed six potential nicknames for the team: Utah Blizzard, Utah Hockey Club (Utah HC), Utah Mammoth, Utah Outlaws, Utah Venom, and Utah Yeti. These choices were narrowed down through a round of fan voting, with over 520,000 votes cast to determine the top six options.
It is interesting to note that some traditional Utah symbols, such as the Bees, did not make the final cut. This shows that the team owners are open to exploring a wide range of options and are considering what will resonate most with fans. The fact that more than 60% of the votes went to the remaining six names indicates that there is a clear frontrunner among the choices.
Once a final nickname is selected, the team will have to work on creating a cohesive brand identity. In the inaugural season, the team will sport jerseys with “UTAH” across the front. However, after the nickname is decided, Smith Entertainment Group will develop a logo, mascot, and branding strategy to be unveiled for the 2025-26 season. This process will be crucial in establishing the team’s identity and connecting with fans on a deeper level.
The NHL’s Utah team will call Delta Arena home for the upcoming season, sharing the space with the NBA’s Utah Jazz. This shared arena will provide a unique opportunity for fans to support both professional basketball and hockey teams in one location. It will also allow for cross-promotion between the two sports, potentially drawing in new fans who may not have previously been hockey enthusiasts.
Overall, the arrival of a new NHL franchise in Utah is an exciting development for sports fans in the state. As the team moves forward with selecting a nickname and creating a brand identity, there is a sense of anticipation and optimism surrounding their debut in the league. Fans can continue to vote for their preferred nickname until June 20, knowing that their input will help shape the future of hockey in Utah.