Get ready for a historic moment in hockey—Utah is set to host the 2027 Discover NHL Winter Classic, marking a monumental achievement for the state and its newest NHL franchise, the Utah Mammoth. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: the Mammoth will face off against the Colorado Avalanche at the iconic Rice-Eccles Stadium on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. And this is the part most people miss—this will be the NHL’s 47th outdoor game, with previous events drawing an average of over 51,000 fans per game. Will Utah top that? Only time will tell.
By Dan Rosen
@drosennhl (https://www.x.com/drosennhl) NHL.com Senior Writer
January 07, 2026
Utah Mammoth General Manager Bill Armstrong is already dreaming about his commute for the big day. “My house is just a two-minute walk from the stadium,” he told NHL.com. “So, I’ll grab my iPad, step outside, and stroll over. Meanwhile, my wife will probably host a massive tailgate at our place.” It’s a level of convenience and excitement that perfectly captures the spirit of this event.
The official announcement came during a press conference at Rice-Eccles Stadium, featuring NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Mammoth owners Ryan and Ashley Smith, and Mammoth forward Logan Cooley (https://www.nhl.com/player/logan-cooley-8483431). This will be the 18th NHL Winter Classic and the Mammoth’s first outdoor game, making them the 32nd NHL team to participate in this storied tradition. A specific date for the game will be announced later, but anticipation is already building.
Controversial Question: Can Utah’s relatively new fanbase match the energy of more established markets? The Mammoth’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Just two years ago, many of the current Mammoth players—including Clayton Keller, Nick Schmaltz, and Dylan Guenther—were playing for the Arizona Coyotes in front of just 4,600 fans at Mullett Arena. Fast forward to next season, and they’ll be skating in a stadium that seats over 54,000 for college football. Talk about a glow-up!
“It’s super cool,” said Keller, who grew up watching the Winter Classic and the 24/7 HBO series. “Being part of this is going to be super special and a ton of fun.” For Armstrong, the announcement is a chance to reflect on how far the franchise has come, from its roots as the Coyotes to its new home in Utah.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Some critics argue that awarding the Winter Classic to a second-year franchise like the Mammoth is a risky move. Do they deserve this spotlight so soon? Or is it a well-deserved reward for the team’s rapid growth and the unwavering support of its fanbase? Weigh in below—we want to hear your thoughts!
The Mammoth’s success isn’t just about the players; it’s also about the ownership and leadership. Keller praised Ryan and Ashley Smith, calling them “the best owners in the League.” He also highlighted the personal touch of team president Chris Armstrong, who supported him during a difficult time by attending his father’s funeral. “Everything they do for us is unbelievable,” Keller said. “They really care about growing the game and being part of the community.”
Hosting the Winter Classic is a massive opportunity for Utah to showcase its passion for hockey. “It’s a celebration of hockey in your state, your city, and for your franchise,” Bill Armstrong said. “It draws a lot of attention, and there’s a lot to be proud of.” And when the day arrives, Armstrong envisions walking to the stadium alongside thousands of fans, ready to ring in 2027 with the biggest hockey event Salt Lake City has seen since the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Final Thought-Provoking Question: With the Mammoth’s rapid rise and the NHL’s growing presence in non-traditional markets, is this the start of a new era for hockey? Or is it just a fleeting moment of excitement? Let us know what you think in the comments—this discussion is too good to miss!
