Utah Mammoth GM Armstrong Prioritizes Long-Term Trades Over Rental Acquisitions
The Utah Mammoth have surged into playoff contention with an impressive 11-4-1 run as the NHL approaches the March 6 trade deadline. Currently holding the first wild card spot in the Western Conference with a 30-24-4 record and 64 points, the team is positioned for a postseason push. However, General Manager Bill Armstrong has made it clear that his strategy does not involve short-term fixes.
No Interest in Rental Players
In an interview with NHL.com, Armstrong stated that acquiring players who will become free agents this summer—commonly known as "rentals"—does not align with the Mammoth's current developmental stage. The organization built significant depth during the offseason and is focused on trades that offer long-term value rather than temporary boosts. "Rental acquisitions do not fit where the Mammoths currently stand in their development," Armstrong emphasized, highlighting a preference for sustainable roster building.
Quiet Trade Market Due to Tight Playoff Races
Armstrong also addressed the unexpectedly quiet trade market across the league, attributing it to the congested standings in both conferences. Tight playoff races have left many teams hesitant to commit to buyer or seller roles until they have a clearer picture of their postseason chances. "Because it's so tight, I think teams, if they drop four games in a row, don't get to the record that they want; they've set kind of an agenda," he explained. "And they're going to wait as long as they can to make that decision."
Many anticipated a flurry of deals after the recent roster freeze lifted, but movement has been limited as teams assess their performance over the next several games. Armstrong noted, "I do believe it has to do with teams waiting to see how they do in the next five or so games before choosing to adjust."
Key Roster Moves and Injury Returns
The Mammoth proactively addressed their needs before the season began, most notably with the acquisition of forward JJ Peterka from the Sabres on June 26. The 23-year-old was signed to a five-year, $38.5 million contract and has since become a key contributor, ranking third on the team with 20 goals.
Additionally, the team received a boost this week with the return of Logan Cooley from a lower-body injury that sidelined him for 28 games. The 21-year-old center recorded an assist in his first game back and immediately reclaimed his second-line role, adding depth to the lineup.
Playoff Expectations and Upcoming Schedule
After missing the playoffs by 7 points last season—their first year after relocating from Arizona—the Mammoth have raised their expectations. "This year, the goal is the playoffs," Armstrong declared. "And right now, we have a chance. Now it's time for us to get the job done."
With four games remaining before the deadline and a favorable schedule that includes 13 of their final 24 games at the Delta Center, the Mammoth are well-positioned for a strong finish. Armstrong remains open to improvements, stating, "We wake up every morning looking to make our team better. If there's a hockey trade to be made to make us better, we'll definitely look at it."
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Armstrong's moves to bolster the Mammoth's playoff chances while staying true to their long-term vision.
