3 Players Entering Final Season With Utah HC

This is a big season for Utah as they kick things off in a new city. The expectations aren't through the roof just yet as there will be an adjustment period and the team is still young, but they're getting there. That being said, there are going to be some changes by the following season, whether that be by players leaving in free agency or through trades.

Alex Kerfoot

Alex Kerfoot's place on Utah is very limited as he is likely bumped down to the fourth line this season. With Dylan Guenther, Logan Cooley, and Josh Doan set for bigger roles as well as Clayton Keller, Lawson Crouse, and Matias Maccelli lining the left side above Kerfoot, the veteran doesn't have much of an opportunity this season. This should lower his value to the point where the team may still get something out of him at the trade deadline if Utah is selling, but he might just leave in free agency to get a better chance at playing time somewhere else.

Karel Vejmelka

Connor Ingram took over as the starter last season with Karel Vejmelka taking a backseat and struggling. This shouldn't change much this season even though Ingram isn't expected to go on an incredible run. Vejmelka is in the final year of his contract and with the team looking to be more competitive, Utah will look elsewhere if he doesn't have a big bounce-back season and prove his worth to the organization.

Ian Cole

Ian Cole was signed in free agency this season to bolster the third pairing which will help a relatively inexperienced Michael Kesselring. It may be the only season Cole is needed in Utah as Vladislav Kolyachonok and a few other young defensemen will be pushing for spots. He could also be used as a strong trade chip as he is solid in his role on the third pairing.