The Utah Mammoth have one of the youngest teams in the NHL coming into next season, and one can expect some youngsters to have an impact. There are some young stars and even prospects that could really impact the team in the 2026-27 season. Ultimately, with the moves that Utah has made, a mix of these young stars and the players they have now could really make the Mammoth one of the best teams in the NHL.
Sebastian Cossa, G
On the first day of the NHL draft, the Mammoth traded for a very good goalie prospect for the 23rd overall selection of the 2026 NHL draft. Sebastian Cossa, 23, was drafted 15th overall in the 2023 NHL draft by the Detroit Red Wings and was never rushed by the team. Cossa would debut in the 2024-25 season and win, but would never see the NHL this last season thanks to Detroit acquiring another goalie. The Mammoth knew they needed a good backup goalie, which is exactly why they traded for Cossa. At the very least, Cossa is going to the backup. However, there is a chance Cossa could be the starter, depending on how well he performs. Utah hopes that Cossa is the goalie of the future.
Dmitri Simashev, D
The Mammoth allowed a couple of defensemen to walk, mainly because they plan to rely on the 21-year-old Dmitri Simashev for depth. Simashev was selected 6th overall in the 2023 NHL draft, and Utah has pretty high hopes for their Russian defender. Simashev most certainly isn't going to be a provider of offense, but he does offer size and the ability to really affect the other team's offense. Simashev, 6'5'', is simply going to be a cornerstone of the Mammoth defense next season.
Tij Iginla, F,
One of the best prospects in the NHL is Tij Iginla, son of Hall of Famer Jerome Iginla. The 19-year-old was selected 6th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, and Iginla may make his appearance in the NHL next season. Iginla is pretty determined to reach the NHL soon, and he could have a massive impact immediately. In the 2025-26 season in the WHL, Iginla scored 41 goals and added 49 assists in just 48 games (90 points). Iginla is fast, smart, athletic, and capable of scoring goals and providing assists. Iginla might be the next superstar for this Utah team. Out of all of the youngsters about to be in the NHL next season, Iginla is going to be among the most fun to watch. One thing is for sure, Iginla can make an impact immediately.
