SANDY, Utah — Vincent Trocheck and Anders Lee were introduced Friday as the newest members of the Utah Mammoth, bringing veteran experience and a shared focus on pushing the team deeper into the postseason. Both forwards emphasized the club’s growth in recent years and said the aim is to contend for the Stanley Cup.
Trocheck arrived via trade from the New York Rangers on July 1 in a deal that sent defenseman Sean Durzi, forward prospect Cole Beaudoin, and a 2027 third-round draft pick the other way. He produced 53 points (16 goals, 37 assists) in 67 games last season.
Lee joined the same day on a three-year, $16.2 million contract with a $5.4 million average annual value after 14 seasons with the New York Islanders, the last eight as captain. He recorded 42 points (19 goals, 23 assists) in 82 games in 2023-24.
Team’s Ambition and Strategy
Utah is coming off its first Stanley Cup Playoff appearance, a first-round exit in six games against the Vegas Golden Knights. Team leadership believes the new additions address areas needed to progress, particularly competitiveness and a stronger inside presence.
General manager Bill Armstrong said the organization views these moves as a step toward sustained contention, noting that the two forwards add leadership, playoff know-how, and a hard-edged style to a young, ascending roster. Trocheck has appeared in 56 NHL playoff games; Lee has 46.
Both players described their games as heavy and responsible across all three zones. Lee is known for net-front work and creating traffic, while Trocheck brings a relentless forecheck and versatility on both special-teams units.
After years as opponents in the Metropolitan Division, Trocheck and Lee welcomed the chance to play together, pointing to long-standing respect for each other’s competitiveness.
Trocheck also has a personal connection on the roster through forward Logan Cooley, with whom he has trained during summers in Pittsburgh. He said joining Cooley in the NHL for the first time is an exciting development.
The forwards expressed enthusiasm about their first days in Utah, citing the team’s facilities, staff, and the local community as strong first impressions as they settle into their new surroundings. With the addition of Trocheck and Lee, the Utah Mammoth are poised for an exciting season ahead, aiming for a deep playoff run and a potential Stanley Cup victory.