On Sunday, June 9, 2025, hockey reporter Chris Johnston spoke on The Chris Johnston Show and gave a big update about the Utah Mammoth. With NHL free agency starting soon on July 1, many teams are getting ready to sign big names. But Johnston said the Utah Mammoth may not be the team to offer a huge contract this year.
No big splashes expected from Utah Mammoth in July 1 NHL free agency
Chris Johnston shared this update during his latest podcast episode of The Chris Johnston Show on June 9, 2025. He said the Utah Mammoth want to be involved in free agency but are not likely to give a massive contract to any single player. His words were, “They want to be active… but not necessarily the team giving out the biggest deal on July 1.”The Utah Mammoth is the new NHL team that moved from Arizona to Salt Lake City earlier in 2025. The team is now preparing for its first full season under the new name and location. Many fans thought the Mammoth might try to make a big splash by signing a superstar, but Johnston says that’s not the plan.Johnston did not name any player, but based on the way he spoke, many believe he was hinting at Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitchell Marner. Marner’s name has been in trade and free agency talks for weeks, and his future with Toronto is uncertain.Also Read: Utah Mammoth Shocks NHL With Bold Mitch Marner Pursuit, Insiders Say Team Is “Determined To Introduce Themselves In A Big Way”
Utah Mammoth’s focus may be smart spending and long-term growth
The Utah Mammoth, led by new owner Ryan Smith and general manager Bill Armstrong, seem to be building their team with patience. Instead of going for a big-name signing right away, they may be looking at smart, smaller deals to fill out the roster.Chris Johnston said, “I think they’re going to spend money… just maybe not on one person.” That means the team might choose to spread its money across several players instead of offering a single superstar a huge contract.This strategy could help Utah build a stronger team over time, especially since they are just starting fresh in a new city. More updates are expected before July 1, when NHL free agency officially opens.