Although most of the veterans on the Utah Mammoth also suited up as Arizona Coyotes at one point, the team looked disjointed in 2024-25 during their first season as a new franchise. The club doesn’t seem to be having those issues this season, with a concrete identity and connection to the community seemingly driving their play.
A big part of Utah’s good start to the season has been because of the team’s newcomers, with JJ Peterka leading the way. The five-year veteran was acquired by the Mammoth this past summer and has been a great addition to the club both on and off the ice.
Peterka has been one of the driving forces behind the Mammoth’s offensive approach this season, with 21 points in 28 games. His 12 goals rank second on the team behind Logan Cooley (14), and his most recent contest saw him tally four points for the first time in Utah.
Peterka has been able to shine in his first season away from Buffalo and has seemingly found a team that suits his playing style better, which has paid off right away. He will look to continue the success he’s had so far, especially since he’s slowly cementing himself as an important part of their offense.
Logan Cooley has been one of the hottest young stars in the NHL this season. His goal-scoring ability has been a big reason why the Mammoth are currently sitting in a playoff spot. The 21-year-old is leading the team in goals (14) through 28 contests, and although he’s cooled off over the past few games, there’s no doubt he’ll pick it back up again soon.
Cooley has played a big role in the team finding their rhythm in 2025-26, and it’s a safe bet to assume he’ll continue to do so as he matures as a player. He has already shown that he can be the top contributor on a playoff-worthy team early on in the 2025-26 campaign. The center will be the main story if the Mammoth find themselves playing hockey late into the spring, and it seems like he’s ready for it.
Clayton Keller spent his career with the Coyotes as one of the best players on the team, and not much has changed in the move to Utah. The 10-year veteran was named the first captain in franchise history ahead of their first season and has only grown into the role since.
Keller leads the team in points (25) and assists (16), showcasing his ability to produce at a high rate. He tallied three points in his most recent game against the Anaheim Ducks, marking his third contest this season with at least three points.
The center is also playing for a lot more than just the Mammoth’s success. Keller attended the United States Olympic camp this past summer in hopes of being named to the team. He has represented the United States on multiple occasions and would be a great offensive weapon for the Americans given his experience. Utah’s captain could even be a good choice for leadership on that team, especially considering the way he’s led the Mammoth up to this point.
Utah didn’t have a great first season in 2024-25, but with that behind them, the Mammoth seem poised to compete all season long. The team has proven that they can beat some of the best teams in the league, and they’re not going to back down from worthy competition.
The players have seemingly bought into the identity of the Mammoth since it was announced earlier this summer, and it’s been one of their driving forces. A lot of Utah’s wins are coming from their young core, headlined by Cooley and Dylan Guenther, showing signs of a promising future for the Mammoth.
Winning as a young franchise isn’t an easy thing to do. Utah has taken the time to develop an identity that has been paying dividends for them in 2025-26. It’s a bold statement, I know. With that being said, if they can continue to grow as a team, they could end up being a surprise team down the line.
If the Mammoth do find themselves playing meaningful hockey past April, I’d also expect the community to show up and show out for them. Having a support system can do wonders for a franchise, and with Utah still finding its footing, it could be a huge confidence boost for them. I can’t wait to see how this season unfolds for them, and I think it’ll be a good one if they continue down the right path.
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