### Utah Mammoth Strengthen Roster with Key Signings The Utah Mammoth have made significant moves in the offseason to bolster their roster, focusing on both offensive and defensive capabilities. The team has re-signed center Jack McBain to a five-year deal worth $21.25 million, while also acquiring veteran defenseman Nate Schmidt and goaltender Vitek Vanecek. These strategic signings reflect the Mammoth's commitment to building a competitive team for the upcoming season. ### Breakdown of Recent Signings 1. **Jack McBain's Contract Extension** - McBain signed a five-year contract valued at $21.25 million, averaging $4.25 million annually. - He achieved career highs last season with 13 goals and 27 points, playing all 82 games. - General Manager Bill Armstrong emphasized McBain's importance to the team's championship aspirations [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_c_jack_mcbain_to_five_year_deal/s1_17050_42426729]. 2. **Nate Schmidt's Acquisition** - Schmidt signed a three-year deal worth $10.5 million, averaging $3.5 million per year. - He recently won a Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, contributing significantly during the playoffs. - His experience and leadership are expected to enhance the Mammoth's defensive lineup [https://www.nhl.com/news/nate-schmidt-signs-3-year-contract-with-mammoth]. 3. **Vitek Vanecek's Signing** - Vanecek joined the Mammoth on a one-year contract valued at $1.5 million. - He played 25 games last season with a record of 5-14-4 and will serve as a backup goaltender. - His addition provides depth and insurance in the goaltending position [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_goaltender_vitek_vanecek_to_one_year_contract/s1_16958_42402928]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Jack McBain's Performance:** - Career Stats: 82 points in 241 regular-season games. - Last Season: 13 goals, 27 points in 82 games [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_c_jack_mcbain_to_five_year_deal/s1_17050_42426729]. - **Nate Schmidt's Contributions:** - Regular Season: 5 goals, 19 points in 80 games. - Playoffs: 3 goals, 12 points in 23 games, playing a key role in the Panthers' championship run [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_defenseman_nate_schmidt_to_three_year_contract/s1_16958_42402025]. - **Vitek Vanecek's Stats:** - Last Season: 25 games played, .884 save percentage, and one shutout [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_goaltender_vitek_vanecek_to_one_year_contract/s1_16958_42402928]. ### Conclusion: A Promising Future for the Mammoth The Utah Mammoth's recent signings of Jack McBain, Nate Schmidt, and Vitek Vanecek indicate a strategic approach to enhancing their roster for the upcoming season. 1. **Key Players:** - McBain's offensive skills and Schmidt's playoff experience are expected to be pivotal. - Vanecek adds depth to the goaltending position, ensuring a robust defensive strategy. 2. **Team Goals:** - The Mammoth aim to build a championship-caliber team, as highlighted by GM Bill Armstrong's comments on McBain and Schmidt's roles. 3. **Overall Impact:** - These acquisitions reflect the Mammoth's commitment to competing at a high level, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/mammoth_sign_c_jack_mcbain_to_five_year_deal/s1_17050_42426729, https://www.nhl.com/news/nate-schmidt-signs-3-year-contract-with-mammoth].