Utah’s Moves and Extensions: Securing the Future
With the trade deadline approaching, Utah Hockey Club General Manager Bill Armstrong has been proactive in solidifying the roster, making key contract extensions and trades to set the foundation for the team’s future.
Vejmelka Locked In as Utah’s Franchise Goalie
The top priority for Utah’s front office was locking in starting goaltender Karel “Veggie” Vejmelka with a five-year, $23.75 million extension, keeping him in Utah through the 2030 season. The 28-year-old netminder will earn an annual salary of $4.75 million, a well-earned reward for his stellar performance in net this season.
So far, Vejmelka has appeared in 38 games, holding a 16-16-4 record with a .910 save percentage (SV%) and a 2.45 goals-against average (GAA). While Utah currently ranks 14th in the NHL in goals allowed per game (2.93), Vejmelka’s play has been a bright spot, proving his value as a reliable No. 1 goalie. His new contract signals confidence from the organization, ensuring that he remains a key piece in Utah’s long-term plans.
One-Year Extensions for Kerfoot & Cole
Utah also secured two key veterans for another season, signing forward Alex Kerfoot and defenseman Ian Cole to one-year contract extensions worth $3 million each.
• Ian Cole’s deal includes a $2.8 million base salary, with “games played” bonuses totaling an additional $200,000. The 35-year-old defenseman has been a steady presence on the blue line, playing 61 games while contributing 1 goal and 12 assists.
• Alex Kerfoot has also played in 61 games this season, posting 7 goals and 9 assists, continuing to play his supporting role on offense effectively.
Utah Adds Youth, Sends Maccelli to Montreal
Looking toward the future, Utah’s front office made another move, calling up forward Cameron Hebig from the AHL on a one-year, two-way contract for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Additionally, Utah traded forward Matias Maccelli—who was in the second year of his three-year, $10.28 million contract—to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Joshua Roy and a 2026 second-round pick.
• Maccelli had struggled this season, registering just 18 points (8 goals, 10 assists), and was even a healthy scratch early in the season, which diminished his trade value.
• With a fresh start in Montreal, Maccelli will look to turn things around under head coach Martin St. Louis.
What’s Next for Utah?
With goaltending stability secured, key veterans returning, and youth being infused into the lineup, Utah is quietly building a more balanced roster. While this season remains a work in progress, these moves show that the front office is committed to constructing a sustainable foundation for long-term success.
Dante Robinson | Senior NHL Analyst for TheNSR Network
