Utah Mammoth retains center Barrett Hayton after matching Devils' $4.775 M offer sheet

The Utah Mammoth exercised their right to match a one‑year, $4.775 million offer sheet submitted by the New Jersey Devils for restricted‑free‑agent centre Barrett Hayton. By matching the offer, the Mammoth keep Hayton for the 2026‑27 season and are barred from trading him for the next 12 months. Hayton, 26, recorded 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 67 games last season and was originally drafted fifth overall in 2018 by the Arizona Coyotes, remaining with the franchise after its move to Utah. General manager Bill Armstrong said, “Barrett is a key piece of our team and important to what we are building here in Utah. He’s strong in the face‑off circle, plays both sides of the puck and can play with anyone in our forward group.” Hayton echoed his enthusiasm, stating he is “fired up to get back with my teammates and remain in Utah.” Had the Mammoth declined, New Jersey would have received a second‑round draft pick as compensation. The Devils retain roughly $7.6 million of cap space for the 2026‑27 season, preserving flexibility for further roster moves. The decision also leaves the Mammoth with a surplus of centres, prompting GM Armstrong to outline a depth chart that includes Nick Schmaltz, Logan Cooley, Vincent Trocheck and Kevin Stenlund alongside Hayton.