The Utah Mammoth have retained forward Barrett Hayton, matching the offer sheet extended by the New Jersey Devils. Hayton has signed a one-year contract worth $4.775 million, keeping him with the franchise through the 2026-27 season. Due to the offer sheet's terms, Utah cannot trade Hayton for one calendar year. He becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027, but is eligible to sign an extension with the Mammoth beginning January 1, 2027.

Mammoth General Manager Bill Armstrong stated Hayton is a vital part of the team's construction, citing his strength in face-offs and two-way play. Hayton, the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, recorded 10 goals and 25 points in 67 games during the 2025-26 season. This follows a 2024-25 campaign where he set career highs with 20 goals and 46 points.

The Devils' pursuit of Hayton, led by their new GM Sunny Mehta, aimed to add a center with penalty-killing ability. New Jersey's decision not to match leaves them with approximately $7.6 million in cap space. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers have made a significant offer for Leo Carlsson, signaling aggressive moves across the league.