The NHL's newest team will take it outdoors in 2027.
In a stunning announcement during the franchise’s inaugural season, the Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche in the 2027 NHL Winter Classic. Just months into existence, Utah’s expansion club, which acquired the former Arizona Coyotes roster but none of its history or records, is already set to stage one of the league’s premier events, putting outdoor hockey in Utah on the national stage sooner than anyone expected.
The game will be held at Rice-Eccles Stadium, home of the University of Utah football program, giving the Mammoth a marquee moment barely two seasons into their existence. At SEG our goal is to bring great things and build Utah. This is one of those things. The 18th Winter Classic coming to Utah in our 3rd year in the NHL. Couldn’t be more excited! Big things ahead! The announcement came quickly and with star power. Team owners Ryan Smith and Ashley Smith were on site alongside NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, signaling strong league confidence in the market. Star forwardThe Winter Classic has increasingly leaned into college football stadiums to host its premier outdoor showcase. Massive venues built for tens of thousands provide the scale, spectacle, and atmosphere the league covets for its annual tradition. Nov 22, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes fans celebrate a touchdown against the Kansas State Wildcats during the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images | Rob Gray-Imagn Images Rice-Eccles Stadium fits that mold perfectly, offering sweeping mountain backdrops and a passionate fan base eager for marquee hockey moments. Utah now becomes the fourth NCAA program whose football homes have transformed into outdoor hockey rinks for one of the NHL’s most watched events, joining Michigan , Notre Dame and Ohio State . The Cotton Bowl, now a College Football Playoff site, hosted the 2020 game.Utah’s on-ice product has helped accelerate the timeline. The Mammoth have been one of the league’s most surprising teams this season, driven by speed, youth, and a fearless style that has kept them competitive night after night. Utah sits in 4th in the Central with a record of 20-20-3, placing it two points out of a playoff position. With a young core already producing and growing together, the Winter Classic becomes both a reward and a proving ground with a chance for Utah to showcase not just a new market, but a legitimate, exciting team.at loanDepot Park in Miami, one of the warmest outdoor games in league history, the NHL pivots sharply back to winter conditions in Salt Lake City. From palm trees to mountain air, the league’s premier outdoor event finds itself reinvented once again. For a team that did not exist a year ago, the moment feels surreal. In 2027, Utah will host the Winter Classic and celebrate how quickly this franchise and this fan base have found their place in the NHL.Adam Waxman is a writer covering the NHL for Breakaway on SI. A graduate of Penn State, he previously covered PSU men’s and women’s hockey as well as baseball for The Daily Collegian. Adam is also a writer for the Chester County Press and contributes to Flyers Nation. Follow him on X @adamwaxman10
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Nebraska Emerging as a Contender for 2027 4-Star Defensive LinemanNebraska is firmly in the mix for 2027 four-star defensive lineman Seth Tillman as the Huskers build momentum on the recruiting trail.
Read more »
Falcons Restructure Cousins' Contract, Create Uncertainty for 2027The Atlanta Falcons have restructured quarterback Kirk Cousins' contract, introducing a vesting guarantee for the 2027 season, potentially leading to a decision on his future before March 13. The new deal reduces his 2026 base salary while the team could also explore a post-June 1 release to gain cap flexibility. Cousins has expressed a desire to return but acknowledges his future is uncertain.
Read more »
U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley plans to run for mayor of Chicago in 2027Illinois Congressman Mike Quigley on Tuesday said he plans to run for mayor of Chicago in 2027.
Read more »
Utah Mammoth to host Winter Classic at Rice-Eccles Stadium in 2027After 3 decades spent in the sunny (and humid) South Florida media world, Jeff has traveled to across the country to partake in the delights of The Beehive State.
Read more »
Avalanche to play in 2027 NHL Winter Classic against Utah Mammoth in Salt Lake CityA budding Rocky Mountain hockey rivalry is headed outdoors.
Read more »
Utah Mammoth announce outdoor 'Winter Classic' game against Colorado AvalancheThe NHL and the Utah Mammoth announced that the Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche in an outdoor 2027 Winter Classic game at Rice-Eccles Stadium.Utah
Read more »