Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: What to call a new Utah NHL Team?

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SALT LAKE CITY — So, Ryan Smith is asking for your help in choosing a name for an NHL team.

As the man with all the marbles, it’s his choice, and he’s already mentioned the possibility of the Utah Yetis — which would be perfect! An abominable snowman to go with his abominable basketball team.

I mean I love me some Jazz, but they have been on this historic 12-game losing streak. I barely recognize the name of a single player on the court. Still, fun to go, and I understand they’re tanking for a better slot in the NBA draft. But still — this season hurts.

So here’s a chance to make up for inheriting the name Jazz from New Orleans. They moved here 50 years ago, supposedly the tapped-out owner didn’t want to spend the money on rebranding, so the Jazz it is.

And now we could get a clean skate… uh, slate… with hockey.

Among the suggestions being floated along with the Yetis: the Utah Blizzard, The Mountaineers, The Pioneers, The Utah Brine Shrimp, The Screaming Seagulls, The Buzz. Can’t do the Golden Eagles, Vegas already has the Golden Nights. But in the end, the name is a forgone conclusion. 

I predict it’ll be the Utah Yetis because the team would make SO much money from the merch! Little Yeti dolls and jerseys and mugs and jackets. Even before the first face-off — Ka-Ching! The other reason for Yeti’s is that Ryan Smith already suggested it. You know how it works — he’ll own the team and to the winner goes the spoils.

Jazz fans… you do remember winning? Don’t you?

Jeff Caplan is the host of Jeff Caplan’s Afternoon News on KSL NewsRadio. Follow him on Facebook and X. 

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