Hayton’s Deal Secures Future
The Utah Mammoth announced Tuesday that they have matched the New Jersey Devils’ offer sheet for forward Barrett Hayton, securing the 27‑year‑old on a one‑year contract worth $4.775 million. General manager Bill Armstrong hailed the move as a pivotal step for a franchise that is still finding its footing in its maiden NHL season.
Hayton’s breakout 2024‑25 campaign saw him notch 10 goals, 15 assists and 25 points in 67 games, setting new personal bests in every offensive category, including power‑play production and game‑winning goals. The milestone moment came on February 22, when he recorded the first hat trick in franchise history against the Los Angeles Kings, a performance that helped the Mammoth clinch a crucial victory.
The center’s contributions have not gone unnoticed beyond the box score. He was named the NHL’s Third Star of the Week on Jan. 27, 2025, and earned a spot on Canada’s roster for the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he continued to showcase his international pedigree after previously leading Team Canada to gold at the 2020 World Junior Championship.
Armstrong emphasized that Hayton represents more than just statistical upside; he is a leader who captained Canada’s junior squad and brings a winning mentality to Utah. “He’s a key piece of the puzzle as we look to translate our early success into a sustained competitive presence,” Armstrong said.