Jazz Owner Ryan Smith Talks NHL, Future Of Utah Sports On Pat McAfee

Nov 8, 2023, 1:30 PM | Updated: Nov 9, 2023, 11:22 am

KSL Sports

SALT LAKE CITY – It’s no secret the state of Utah has its collective eyes on an NHL team and so does Utah Jazz and Real Salt Lake owner Ryan Smith.

In the past, Smith hinted at his interest in bringing an NHL to the state of Utah. Back in April, Smith quoted a post on X from KSL Sports’ Sam Farnsworth about bringing the Stanley Cup Playoffs to Utah, saying “in motion”.

In motion

— Ryan Smith (@RyanQualtrics) April 22, 2023

Ryan Smith Talks NHL To Utah With Pat McAfee

Pat McAfee host of one of the most popular sports shows online (and now TV) had Smith in the studio to discuss the Utah Jazz, the NBA and the potential of bringing professional hockey to Utah.

“I’ve talked to Gary Bettman a bunch and there’s no secret how hockey would do in Utah..

I’m all about Utah and I believe in what’s happening there” ~ @RyanQualtrics #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/ZPDIFvrxV1

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 8, 2023

McAfee recently visited Utah with the College GameDay crew for the matchup between Utah and Oregon and was thoroughly impressed by the sports community of the Beehive State.

McAfee asked Smith about his goals when it comes to owning more teams.

“I’ve talked to Gary (Bettman, NHL commissioner) a bunch,” Smith said. “There’s no secret about how hockey would do there.”

Last week, Bettman was on McAfee’s show. During the segment, McAfee made sure to inform Bettman that Utah LOVES hockey. Bettman was tight-lipped but seemed to agree as he nodded along.

People LOVE hockey in Salt Lake City#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/Om59PWwEcC

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 1, 2023

Ryan Smith Is Dedicated To Utah Sports Community

“At Smith Entertainment Group we are open to all of it. We want to be a part of everything Utah. A lot of people in my spot are OK going … somewhere else. I am all about Utah,” Smith said. ” I believe in what is happening there and where this is going.”

So, will Utah get an NHL team?

Only time will tell but Smith seems dedicated to the cause.

Take us with you, wherever you go.

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Chat with us on Threads about the NHL potentially coming to Utah.

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