A Fresh Start in Utah
Anders Lee, a 36‑year‑old veteran of the National Hockey League, announced this week that he has signed a three‑year, $16.2 million contract with the Utah Mammoth, ending a 14‑season tenure with the New York Islanders.
The agreement arrives just as the Mammoth prepare to host the NHL’s Winter Classic on December 31, 2026, at Rice‑Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, an outdoor venue framed by the state’s mountains.
Lee’s only prior experience in an outdoor showcase was the 2024 Stadium Series in New Jersey, where he contributed a goal in a Rangers loss, a modest but notable backdrop to his new adventure.
The Mammoth, who finished the previous season with a 43‑33‑6 record and advanced to the Western Conference First Round before bowing to the Vegas Golden Knights, view Lee’s arrival as a boost to both on‑ice performance and community engagement.
The team also added Vincent Trocheck in a trade with the New York Rangers, bringing another experienced center to a lineup that already features several veteran players.
Lee, who sits fifth in Islanders history for games played and fourth in goals, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of leadership that earned him six nominations for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, culminating in a win during the 2023‑24 season.
Reflecting on his decision, Lee cited the team’s trajectory, the fit for his career, and the welcoming environment of Salt Lake City, where he already maintains ties through former teammates such as Nate Schmidt, Nick Schmaltz and Clayton Keller.
Having grown up in Minnesota, Lee expressed excitement about integrating into a community that embraces hockey, describing the local fan base as supportive and eager to welcome a player of his caliber.
The move also signals a broader ambition for the franchise, which hopes to leverage its new stadium, its growing fan base, and the presence of seasoned leaders to become a perennial contender in the Western Conference.