The Utah Mammoth have signed forward Brandon Tanev to a three-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $2.5 million. The deal is worth a total of $7.5 million. This move aims to bolster the team's bottom-six forward group with a physical and experienced player.

Tanev, 33, is coming off a season split between the Seattle Kraken and the Winnipeg Jets. Traded to Winnipeg at the NHL Trade Deadline, he accumulated a total of 22 points (10 goals, 12 assists) in 79 regular-season games. He also participated in all 13 of the Jets' playoff games. Throughout his NHL career, Tanev has played 552 games with the Jets, Kraken, and Pittsburgh Penguins, amassing 84 goals and 96 assists for a total of 180 points. He has also played in 59 career playoff games, recording 7 goals and 7 assists.

Chris Armstrong, president of hockey operations for the Utah Mammoth, expressed excitement about Tanev joining the team, stating that fans will appreciate his maximum effort and physical style of play. General Manager Bill Armstrong highlighted Tanev's playoff experience and penalty-killing abilities, emphasizing the upgrade he brings to the team.

Tanev's career began with the Winnipeg Jets in the 2015-16 season. Before turning professional, he played four seasons at Providence College, where he won a national title in 2015. He also represented Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Championship. His brother, Christopher, is a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Mammoth's acquisition of Tanev addresses a need for physicality in their lineup. Last season, the team had only five players with over 100 hits, and Nick Bjugstad, one of those players, has already left the team. With Tanev's addition, the Mammoth could potentially create one of the most physical lines in the game.