The Utah Mammoth are gearing up for their second season in the NHL, now officially branded as the Utah Mammoth after a fan vote determined the permanent name. Following the 2025 NHL Entry Draft and the opening of free agency, here's a projection of what their roster might look like for the 2025-26 season.

Draft Recap

Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, the 2025 NHL Entry Draft saw the Utah Mammoth select center Caleb Desnoyers fourth overall. Desnoyers, who played for Moncton in the QMJHL, is known for his offensive capabilities and leadership qualities, having led his team to the Memorial Cup despite a wrist injury. He is projected to be a high-end offensive producer while remaining defensively responsible.

Free Agency Moves

The Mammoth made a notable addition in free agency by signing veteran defenseman Nate Schmidt to a three-year contract. Schmidt brings experience and stability to the blueline. The free agency period this year saw a rising salary cap, increasing from $88 million to $95.5 million, allowing teams more flexibility in retaining players and pursuing new acquisitions.

Forwards

The forward group has a solid foundation with players like Clayton Keller, who served as team captain in their inaugural season. Other returning forwards under contract include names like Dylan Guenther, Logan Cooley, and Barrett Hayton. Jack McBain, who had a career-best season, might be re-signed. Prospect Daniil But and 2024 first-round pick Tij Iginla could also challenge for roster spots. The Mammoth could aim to improve their top-six forwards, possibly seeking a skilled winger to play alongside Guenther and Cooley.

Defensemen

The defensive core will be bolstered by the addition of Nate Schmidt. Key returning defensemen include players like Robert Bortuzzo and Ian Cole. With a need for a top-four defenseman, the Mammoth addressed this through free agency. Matthew Schaefer, the top-rated defense prospect in the draft, was selected first overall by the New York Islanders.

Goalies

Goaltending appears to be a position of strength for the Mammoth. Assuming Connor Ingram returns healthy, he and Karel Vejmelka could form a strong tandem. Jaxson Stauber provides further depth and has shown promise in his NHL starts.

Projected Roster

Based on these factors, a possible roster projection for the Utah Mammoth in 2025-26:

• Forwards: Clayton Keller, Dylan Guenther, Logan Cooley, Barrett Hayton, Jack McBain, Matias Maccelli, Daniil But, Tij Iginla, Kevin Stenlund, Michael Carcone, and potentially some new additions from free agency or prospects.
• Defensemen: Nate Schmidt, Robert Bortuzzo, Ian Cole, and other returning players, supplemented by potential prospect additions.
• Goalies: Connor Ingram, Karel Vejmelka, Jaxson Stauber.

Areas to Watch

• Prospect Development: The progress of prospects like Daniil But and Tij Iginla will be crucial in adding depth and skill to the forward group.
• Top-Six Forward Acquisition: Whether the Mammoth can add another impactful forward to boost their offensive firepower.
• Team Chemistry: Building cohesion and chemistry within the team will be vital for success in their second season, especially with new additions.

The Utah Mammoth are aiming to build on their inaugural season, with a focus on strategic drafting and free agency acquisitions to improve their roster. The organization's new identity as the Utah Mammoth is intended to embody strength and momentum. With a mix of returning players, promising prospects, and key additions, the Utah Mammoth are positioning themselves to be competitive in the upcoming 2025-26 NHL season.