Mammoth secure playoff berth in 2nd season with win over Predators

Utah clinches postseason spot after Ducks beat Sharks

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:03am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game between the Utah Mammoth and Nashville Predators, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.The Utah Mammoth's second-season playoff berth is a testament to the team's rapid rise and competitive spirit on the ice.Today in Nashville

The Utah Mammoth defeated the Nashville Predators 4-1 on Thursday night, securing a playoff berth in just their second season. Dylan Guenther scored his 39th goal of the season, while Clayton Keller had three assists to reach 56 points. The Mammoth sit in the first Western Conference wild card spot with 90 points, six ahead of the Predators.

Why it matters

The Mammoth's playoff clinching in just their second season is an impressive accomplishment, showcasing the team's rapid growth and competitiveness in the NHL. This will be the franchise's first-ever postseason appearance, providing an exciting opportunity for the young team and its fanbase.

The details

Kailer Yamamoto, Nick Schmaltz, and captain Lawson Crouse also scored for Utah, while Karel Vejmelka made 29 saves. Erik Haula scored the lone goal for Nashville, who were without defenseman Roman Josi due to an upper-body injury.

  • The Mammoth clinched a playoff berth less than an hour after their 4-1 win over the Predators.
  • The Mammoth secured the first Western Conference wild card spot with 90 points, six ahead of the Predators.

The players

Dylan Guenther

A forward for the Utah Mammoth who scored his 39th goal of the season in the win over the Predators.

Clayton Keller

A forward for the Utah Mammoth who had three assists to reach 56 points on the season.

Kailer Yamamoto

A forward for the Utah Mammoth who scored the opening goal in the first period.

Nick Schmaltz

A forward for the Utah Mammoth who scored his 31st goal of the season on the power play in the second period.

Lawson Crouse

The captain of the Utah Mammoth who scored the team's third goal early in the third period.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Mammoth's playoff berth in just their second season is an impressive feat, showcasing the team's rapid growth and competitiveness in the NHL. This will be the franchise's first-ever postseason appearance, providing an exciting opportunity for the young team and its fanbase.