Avalanche spark speculation after massive news concerning major franchise decision

A sale could potentially lead to the team being relocated to a new market.

Bailey Curtis from The Hockey News writes that the Grizzlies have been part of the Avalanche organization since the 2018-19 season, when they were led by head coach Tim Branham.

The team assured fans that further updates will be shared as "decisions unfold," emphasizing that no sale has been finalized and the 2025-26 season will proceed as scheduled in Utah.

Elmore and Tuttle founded the Denver Grizzlies in 1994 as part of the International Hockey League. The couple relocated the team to Utah the following year and partnered with West Valley City to develop the Maverik Center, the team's home arena. After the IHL folded in 2001, the Grizzlies joined the AHL for four seasons before moving to the ECHL in June 2005.

With the Grizzlies' future in Utah uncertain, many are wondering if Ryan Smith and Smith Entertainment Group could be potential buyers. Smith, who owns the NHL's Utah Mammoth and the NBA's Utah Jazz, acquired the former Arizona Coyotes last April for $1.2 billion.

No official sale or relocation has been finalized yet. Both actions require formal approval from the ECHL and involved stakeholders, with discussions expected to continue over the coming months.

Source:
The Hockey News
Owners of the Colorado Avalanche's ECHL Franchise Exploring Potential Sale of the Team