The world of professional hockey is no stranger to bold rebrands and dramatic unveilings, but few have captured the attention of fans quite like the recent transformation in Utah. After months of anticipation, speculation, and countless rumors, the franchise formerly known as the Utah Hockey Club has finally emerged with a new identity: the Utah Mammoth.

The announcement was met with a flurry of excitement, as the team revealed not only their striking new name but also a visually impressive logo and fresh jerseys that many are already calling among the best in the NHL.

However, even as the celebration continues among supporters and the local community, a shadow has quickly fallen over the festivities. What began as a moment of pride for the organization and its owner, Ryan Smith, has now become the center of a brewing controversy.

As the dust settles on the big reveal, questions are being raised about the originality of the team’s new logo. An independent artist has come forward, suggesting that the design may not be as unique as it first appeared. With social media buzzing and the hockey world watching closely, the Utah Mammoth’s debut has become more than just a fresh start—it’s now a story with unexpected twists.

The logo of the Utah Mammoth.

Photo credit: NHL.com

The Utah Hockey Club are now officially the Utah Mammoth, but with the revelation of their logo, controversy has followed as an accusation of theft has occurred.

After 12 months of speculation and rumours on the situation, the Utah Hockey Club is officially no more, as the organization finally announced their change, revealing the Utah Mammoth name and their new logo.

While the name has seen some mixed reactions, the logo has been highly praised, with their new jerseys appearing to be fantastic, with the team now having arguably one of the best looks in the entire NHL.

It’s not all good for owner Ryan Smith and the organization however, as one artist has taken to social media to accuse the organization of stealing their logo, one that was floating around on social media after being posted back in Februray.

While the artist known as Blue Shells Hockey didn’t explicitly say theft or accuse the franchise of stealing the design, instead giving them this message while asking for compensation of some type.

I feel it’s reasonable to assume that you’ve seen it, and that it influenced your design process.

I’m not out for a lawsuit or anything nefarious. Just a nod and a jersey, maybe

While it’s not exactly identical, it’s easy to see why Blue Shells Hockey is looking at the immense similarities between the two designs, with both being full of details and absolutely incredible.

It’s unclear if something will ever come of this, with the organization claiming all the details of their new design as their own, but it’s definitely a story to monitor as the Utah Mammoth are officially born.