The Utah Mammoth are heading into a crucial offseason after a promising inaugural season that saw them finish just shy of a playoff spot. With a new team name and a hefty amount of cap space, the Mammoth have the opportunity to make significant improvements to their roster through trades and free agency. Here are three dream moves that could propel them into true contention:
1. Acquire a Top-Line Winger via Trade
While the Mammoth have a solid young core, they could benefit from adding a proven scorer to play alongside Clayton Keller. One potential trade target could be Lawson Crouse. Although Crouse's production dipped in the 2024-25 season, he is signed through 2027 and could bounce back with a change of scenery. Another option could be Nick Schmaltz, a veteran forward who has consistently produced points.
Another possibility lies with the Buffalo Sabres, who may be open to moving players. J.J. Peterka was acquired from the Sabres in the past offseason. Tage Thompson could be a game-changing acquisition, bringing goal-scoring prowess to the Mammoth's top six. Bowen Byram could bolster the defensive end.
Landing a top-line winger would provide an immediate boost to the offense and create a more balanced attack. It would also give Keller a reliable scoring partner, potentially unlocking even more of his offensive potential.
2. Sign Brock Boeser or Nikolaj Ehlers in Free Agency
If the Mammoth can't find the right trade, they could turn to free agency to address their need for a top-line winger. Brock Boeser and Nikolaj Ehlers are two intriguing options. Boeser is reportedly seeking a quieter market than Vancouver, making Utah an attractive destination. Ehlers is a proven scorer who could be a good fit on Keller's wing.
Boeser is projected to command a significant contract, around $9 million over six years, while Ehlers might be slightly cheaper at $8.1 million over six years. Both players would bring offensive firepower and a scoring touch that the Mammoth currently lack. Other free agent targets could include Brad Marchand or Victor Olofsson.
3. Trade for a Top-Four Defenseman
The Mammoth already have a decent defense, but adding another top-four defenseman would solidify their blueline and make them even harder to play against. Bowen Byram of the Buffalo Sabres could be a potential target.
Acquiring Byram would push Ian Cole, into the third pairing, creating a more balanced and experienced defensive corps. A strong defense is crucial for any team with Stanley Cup aspirations, and adding another top-four defenseman would signal the Mammoth's commitment to contending.
These three dream moves would address key areas of need and significantly improve the Utah Mammoth's chances of making a deep playoff run in the upcoming season. While pulling off all three might be a long shot, even one or two of these acquisitions would make the Mammoth a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference. General Manager Bill Armstrong has already shown a willingness to make bold moves, and this summer could be his most impactful yet.