NHL-Linked Team Set to Leave City After Shocking Announcement
Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Former Colorado Avalanche ECHL affiliate the Utah Grizzlies are set to potentially relocate after being put up for sale by the current owners leaving their future in doubt according to a report from KSL Sports.
It's not too often that you see teams relocating in sports, often times due to financial hardships or investments opportunities, though it does seem to happen a lot more often in the lower leagues of play.
These community built teams are not necessarily as popular, or bring in the financial stakes big enough to warrant staying there, and unfortunately for the Utah Grizzlies, they are the latest casualty.
In a post on social media on June 22, the Grizzlies announced they were in the process of selling the team, and it could lead to relocation after three decades in the state.
The news was simultaneously announced alongside an article from KSL Sports that explained the team was likely to relocate.
An excerpt from the statement is as follows:
The Utah Grizzlies announced today that the organization has begun a formal process to explore the potential sale of the team, a path that could ultimately lead to relocation.
This step comes with deep reflection and heartfelt appreciation for a community that has embraces the Grizzlies for nearly three decades. From championship runs and Olympic legacy to countless unforgettable nights at the Maverik Center, the Grizzlies have been proud to call Utah home.
The Grizzlies will proudly compete in the 2025-26 season, with a full commitment from players, coaches, and staff to deliver a season worthy of the fans who have supported the team through every high and low.
To our loyal fans, our corporate partners, and the leaders of West Valley City; thank you. Your support has made the Grizzlies a proud part of Utah's story. Whatever the future holds, the legacy of this team will always be rooted in the community.
Thank you.
This step comes with deep reflection and heartfelt appreciation for a community that has embraces the Grizzlies for nearly three decades. From championship runs and Olympic legacy to countless unforgettable nights at the Maverik Center, the Grizzlies have been proud to call Utah home.
The Grizzlies will proudly compete in the 2025-26 season, with a full commitment from players, coaches, and staff to deliver a season worthy of the fans who have supported the team through every high and low.
To our loyal fans, our corporate partners, and the leaders of West Valley City; thank you. Your support has made the Grizzlies a proud part of Utah's story. Whatever the future holds, the legacy of this team will always be rooted in the community.
Thank you.
It comes on the heels of the Utah Mammoth becoming a franchise in the NHL, with backers of both not being able to financially support an additional club, and with the Mammoth clearly the focal point of hockey in the state, the Grizzlies are up for sale.
The team was the Avalanche's ECHL affiliate, but also spent time representing the Calgary Flames, and Anaheim Ducks.
Unfortunately, it seems the relocation and sale of the team isn't a new story, as in their history the team has been sold several times, starting in Nashville then playing in Virginia, Roanoke Valley, Huntsville, Tallahassee, Macon, and Lexington.
It is an unfortunate bit of news for both the team and the community, however it seems that the 2025-26 seasons is going to be one for the ages, and only time will tell if fans get to watch their beloved team once more.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 23 | 1691 ANSWERS NHL-Linked Team Set to Leave City After Shocking Announcement Do you think Utah is going to sell their team? | ||
| Yes | 702 | 41.5 % |
| No | 989 | 58.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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