NHL

NHL News: Utah re-signs new teammate for JJ Peterka, snubbing the Canucks

JJ Peterka will have a new forward teammate on the Utah Mammoth, turning down the interest the Vancouver Canucks had in signing him.

JJ Peterka during his stint in the Buffalo Sabres
© Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty ImagesJJ Peterka during his stint in the Buffalo Sabres

The Utah Mammoth are entering a new era in the NHL after completing their first full season under their new identity in Salt Lake City. Following the arrival of JJ Peterka, the franchise is looking to solidify a competitive foundation and has already taken steps to re-sign a left winger, turning down interest from the Vancouver Canucks.

Despite a temporary separation, the Mammoth reaffirm their confidence in a versatile player who strengthens their offense and adds depth, while staying within a reasonable budget as they prepare their roster for the upcoming season.

Peterka was a major addition for Utah as they look to rebuild with new ambitions for the coming campaign, acquired in a high-profile trade with the Buffalo Sabres. In recent hours, the Mammoth haven’t slowed down, bringing back an important piece and leaving the Canucks empty-handed.

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Who is the player returning to the Mammoth?

The forward re-signing with the Mammoth is none other than left wing Michael Carcone, who agreed to a one-year deal with Utah, as confirmed by Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman. He signed an annual contract after spending part of last season in the AHL.

Michael Carcone

Michael Carcone during his stint with the Mammoth

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Carcone’s impact in Utah

Carcone returns to Utah after spending the previous two seasons there on an annual $775,000 contract. In the 2024–25 season, he appeared in 53 games, recording 7 goals and 19 points, along with 36 penalty minutes and an average ice time of 11:26 per game.

After Stanley Cup win with Panthers, Nate Schmidt issues subtle warning to the rest NHL following signing with Mammoth

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The 29-year-old veteran has totaled 34 goals and 23 assists in 157 NHL games. His best season came in 2023–24, when he tallied 21 goals and 29 points in 74 games. Although he split time with the AHL in 2024–25, he brought experience and depth, and management sees him as a reliable offensive asset.

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