Utah’s sports landscape has dramatically transformed, thanks to the vision and leadership of entrepreneur Ryan Smith. In 2025, Smith—owner of Smith Entertainment Group—ushered in a new era for professional hockey in Salt Lake City by guiding the NHL team through a yearlong rebranding process. The result, the Utah Mammoth, does more than provide a fresh identity; it pays tribute to the state’s prehistoric legacy and unites fans under a powerful symbol.

Ryan Smith’s Vision and a Community-Driven Process

When Ryan Smith acquired and relocated the former Arizona Coyotes franchise to Utah, he faced the challenge of galvanizing a state around a nascent hockey team. Rather than choose a name behind closed doors, Smith invited the community to participate directly. Over 850,000 ballots were cast in multiple public voting rounds, making the process unprecedented in NHL history.

In their statement, owners Ryan and Ashley Smith shared, "The community chose the Utah Mammoth brand, and it stands as a symbol of who we are, where we came from, and the unstoppable force we're building together." Read more on ESPN about Utah's mascot search and rebranding journey.

Why the Mammoth?

The mammoth is more than a mascot—it’s a nod to Utah’s deep prehistoric roots. The state is home to remarkable fossil finds, with mammoth remains unearthed from Bear Lake to Lake Powell. These discoveries helped inspire the new team name. According to Smith, "It became this really cool thing" as the team explored Utah’s connection to the ancient creature (KSL.com details Utah's mammoth history and its sporting relevance).

Scientists estimate that mammoths last roamed Utah about 10,000 years ago. Their fossils remind fans and residents alike of the state’s dynamic history. Now, the NHL’s Utah Mammoth ensures that legacy charges forward into a new "ice age" for local sports.

The Naming Journey: Challenges and Triumphs

The road to the Mammoth name wasn’t easy. Over a year, the team sifted through 21 different candidate names. Trademark issues and debates over favorites like the Yeti complicated the process. Yet, Ryan Smith’s commitment to transparency and fan engagement never wavered. Ultimately, the Mammoth emerged as a symbol of unity and energy for Utah hockey supporters (Yahoo Sports covers the yearlong naming saga in detail).

Fans can now rally behind the Mammoth, proudly sporting new black, white, and Mountain Blue jerseys as the franchise enters its next chapter. Smith’s leadership has not only transformed a team but also strengthened Utah’s sports identity.

Conclusion: Ryan Smith’s Enduring Impact

Ryan Smith’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated. His commitment to honoring Utah’s heritage while building excitement for the future is evident at every step. By letting fans' voices lead, Smith helped forge an NHL identity that’s both unique and deeply rooted in local pride.

As the Utah Mammoth take to the ice, the state’s rich history and the passionate vision of Ryan Smith promise a thrilling hockey future for generations to come. If you want to learn even more about the team’s origin, process, and what’s next, explore the ESPN coverage here or delve into Utah's mammoth heritage at KSL.com.