Event Preview
Overview
The Utah Mammoth are set to host the Minnesota Wild on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM MST (6:00 PM PST) at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. This matchup is significant as both teams are vying for crucial points in the Western Conference standings. The Mammoth, currently 14-13-3, are looking to improve their position, while the Wild, at 15-9-5, aim to solidify their standing. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
Season Snapshot
Utah Mammoth
The Mammoth have a record of 14 wins, 13 losses, and 3 overtime losses, placing them fourth in the Central Division and eighth in the Western Conference. Their performance has been marked by inconsistency, but they have shown resilience in key games. Notably, they secured a 6-2 victory over the Wild on October 25, 2025, with Logan Cooley and Nick Schmaltz each scoring twice. (espn.com)
Minnesota Wild
The Wild hold a record of 15 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses, placing them third in the Central Division and fourth in the Western Conference. Their season has been characterized by strong offensive play, averaging 3.1 goals per game, and solid goaltending with a 2.7 goals-against average. In their last five games, they have secured four wins, including a 6-5 overtime victory against the Nashville Predators on February 4, 2026. (espn.com)
Recent Form
Utah Mammoth
In their last five games, the Mammoth have demonstrated a mix of results:
- February 4, 2026: Defeated the Detroit Red Wings 4-1.
- February 2, 2026: Overpowered the Vancouver Canucks 6-2.
- January 31, 2026: Narrow 3-2 loss to the Dallas Stars.
- January 29, 2026: Close 5-4 defeat against the Carolina Hurricanes.
- January 27, 2026: Hard-fought 4-3 win over the Florida Panthers.
These results highlight the Mammoth's potential but also underscore the need for consistency.
Minnesota Wild
The Wild have been on a strong run, winning four of their last five games:
- February 4, 2026: 6-5 overtime win against the Nashville Predators.
- February 2, 2026: 4-3 overtime victory over the Montreal Canadiens.
- January 31, 2026: Dominant 7-3 win over the Edmonton Oilers.
- January 29, 2026: 4-1 win against the Calgary Flames.
- January 27, 2026: 4-3 shootout victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.
This strong form positions the Wild as formidable opponents.
Talking Points
- Injury Impact: The Wild are missing key players, including leading scorer Kirill Kaprizov and center Joel Eriksson Ek, both on injured reserve. (nhl.com)
- Mammoth's Home Advantage: Playing at the Delta Center, the Mammoth have the opportunity to leverage home ice to their benefit.
- Offensive Firepower: Both teams boast potent offenses, with the Wild averaging 3.1 goals per game and the Mammoth 3.0. (foxsports.com)
- Goaltending Matchup: The performance of goaltenders Karel Vejmelka (Mammoth) and Jesper Wallstedt (Wild) will be crucial.
- Playoff Implications: A win is vital for both teams to stay competitive in the playoff race.
Players to Watch
- Clayton Keller (Mammoth): With 17 goals and 37 assists, Keller leads the Mammoth in points and is a key playmaker. (espn.com)
- Dylan Guenther (Mammoth): His 21 goals and 16 assists make him a significant offensive threat. (espn.com)
- Kirill Kaprizov (Wild): Despite his injury, Kaprizov's impact on the Wild's offense has been substantial, with 32 goals and 15 assists. (espn.com)
- Jesper Wallstedt (Wild): As the Wild's go-to goaltender, Wallstedt's performance will be pivotal in this matchup.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Offensive Depth: The Mammoth's scoring depth, led by Keller and Guenther, will be tested against the Wild's defensive unit.
- Goaltending Battle: Vejmelka's ability to handle the Wild's offensive pressure will be a focal point.
- Special Teams: Both teams' power plays and penalty kills could swing the momentum.
- Injury Adjustments: The Wild's lineup changes due to injuries may affect their cohesion and performance.
Fun Facts
- The Mammoth have a 4-0-1 record against the Wild, including a 6-1 victory on February 27, 2025. (champsorchumps.us)
- Logan Cooley scored twice in the Mammoth's 6-2 win over the Wild on October 25, 2025. (espn.com)
- The Wild have been outscored 12-2 in three losses to the Mammoth this season. (cbssports.com)
- The Mammoth have allowed just one goal in back-to-back games. (nhl.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "With Kaprizov out, can the Wild's offense keep up with the Mammoth?"
- "Is Keller's playmaking enough to secure a win for the Mammoth tonight?"
- "How will the Mammoth's home advantage impact the game's outcome?"
- "Can the Wild's defense step up in the absence of key forwards?"
Prediction
Given the Mammoth's strong home performance and the Wild's recent injury challenges, the Mammoth have a slight edge in this matchup. However, the Wild's resilience and offensive capabilities make it a closely contested game. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive matchup.