In an interview with The Athletic on Friday morning, Ryan Smith, the new owner of the NHL team in Utah, expressed his enthusiasm for the immense task ahead. Smith, who is also the owner of the NBA's Utah Jazz, is no stranger to the hard work involved in taking over a sports team, but condensing three years of preparation into a few months is a daunting challenge.

The unique "hybrid" transaction, in which the Arizona Coyotes will be relocated to Utah under Smith's ownership, was not what his group had initially envisioned for NHL expansion. However, when NHL commissioner Gary Bettman presented the opportunity, Smith and his team jumped at the chance.

Smith, known for his connections with other NHL owners, is eager to elevate the league. Building relationships with owners like Tom Dundon of the Carolina Hurricanes, Tom Werner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and David Blitzer of the New Jersey Devils will facilitate his integration into the NHL community.

Following the NHL Board of Governors' approval of his acquisition of the Coyotes' assets, Smith wasted no time getting to work. He immediately met with players and front-office personnel in Arizona, recognizing the emotional toll the relocation process had taken on them.

During the meeting, Smith conveyed his excitement and vision for the future. While the specifics of the conversation were kept private, his overarching message was to introduce himself, along with his wife Ashley, and highlight what they stand for and what the Utah community represents.

The response from the Utah market has been overwhelming. As of Friday morning, the season-ticket deposit count had already surpassed 20,000, with a significant percentage of non-Jazz season-ticket holders. Smith's goal is to build a movement, offering as many people as possible a chance to experience live hockey and become hooked on the sport.

To accommodate the team's new home, the Delta Center will undergo renovations to provide better sightlines for hockey spectators. Smith plans to address one end of the arena this summer, followed by the other end next summer. The initial seating capacity for hockey will be around 12,000 unobstructed seats, with a long-term goal of accommodating 17,300-17,600 fans.

The team's nickname has become a hot topic on social media. Smith Entertainment Group intends to take their time in selecting the right name, even if it means beginning the next season without one. However, it has been confirmed that the team will represent Utah, not just Salt Lake City.

To ensure community involvement, Smith emphasizes the importance of incorporating fan input into the decision-making process. Although the timing is uncertain, Smith Entertainment Group aims to include the community's voice in naming the team.

In terms of the front office, general manager Bill Armstrong will remain in his position, providing stability and continuity as the team transitions to its new home.

Utah may have its skeptics, but Smith is confident in the market's potential. With the third-largest tech ecosystem in the country and a vibrant community, he believes that Utah is ready to defy expectations and prove that it can successfully support an NHL team.

As Smith and his team continue to navigate the challenges that lie ahead, they are determined to give more to the league than they receive, embodying the spirit of good partners who contribute to the growth and success of the NHL.