Avalanche divisional rival enter the 2025-26 NHL season holding a significant advantage
Photo credit: AP Photo / Rick Egan
The Colorado Avalanche divisional rival Utah Mammoth enter the 2025-26 NHL season holding a significant advantage, a position that could give them early momentum in the Central Division and set the tone for the rest of their campaign.
This season is about more than just a rebrand, it marks the start of the Mammoth era, giving Utah the opportunity to establish its own identity in the NHL.
The Utah Mammoth enter the upcoming season with a clear advantage.
Rodney Knuppel from The Sporting News writes that Mammoth are kicking off their first full season under a new identity, ushering in a fresh era of NHL hockey in Salt Lake City, led by star forward
Clayton Keller.
"Following a successful debut season that captured the attention of fans across the state, the Mammoth are officially stepping into their identity as Utah's team. The franchise enters the 2025-26 campaign with momentum, renewed energy, and a fan base that has already filled the Delta Center with playoff-level passion." -Knuppel
The schedule is loaded with key matchups, highlighted by four games against Central Division rival Colorado Avalanche, a developing regional rivalry that's already adding a competitive spark to the Mountain West.
"Clayton Keller is expected to be the centerpiece of the Mammoth's offense again this season. Coming off another strong campaign, the veteran winger continues to elevate his game, balancing scoring prowess with leadership for a young and energetic roster.
Keller's presence has been transformative both on and off the ice. His commitment to the Utah market has helped solidify the team's new identity, while his creativity and patience with the puck make him one of the most dangerous forwards in the Western Conference." -Knuppel
As the Mammoth begin their first full season under their permanent name and colours, excitement and pride are running high in Utah.
Hockey has firmly planted its roots here, and with stars like Clayton Keller at the forefront, the team is already laying the foundation for something special.
"The 2025-26 season will not only define the Utah Mammoth but also the next generation of hockey in the West. From the electric energy of the Delta Center to the emerging rivalries taking shape, this is the moment Utah hockey becomes something bigger than anyone imagined." -Knuppel
For Keller, this is an opportunity to cement his legacy as the leader of a young franchise and a growing fan base still shaping its identity.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
POLL |
OCTOBRE 6 | 11 ANSWERS Avalanche divisional rival enter the 2025-26 NHL season holding a significant advantage Will the Utah Mammoth finally make the NHL playoffs this season? |
yes | 1 | 9.1 % |
no | 10 | 90.9 % |
List of polls |