The Russians are coming: Dmitri Simashev, Daniil But to join… see more

In a move that’s set to shake up the NHL landscape, Russian standouts Dmitri Simashev and Daniil But will officially be joining the Utah Mammoth for the 2025–26 season. The announcement has ignited excitement not just among Utah fans but across the hockey world, as two of Russia’s brightest young stars prepare to make their long-anticipated transition to North America.

Both players were originally drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft—Simashev at No. 6 and But at No. 12—but with the franchise’s relocation to Utah now complete, the Mammoth are poised to welcome these elite talents as part of their inaugural roster. With skill, size, and sky-high potential, the Russian duo may well become the foundational cornerstones of professional hockey’s newest home.

From Kazan to the Rockies: The Journey So Far

Dmitri Simashev: The Two-Way Titan

At 6-foot-4 and over 200 pounds, Dmitri Simashev has been lauded as one of the most dynamic young defensemen to come out of Russia in recent years. His combination of reach, mobility, and hockey IQ drew comparisons to NHL stars like Victor Hedman and Alex Pietrangelo during his draft year.

Simashev spent the last two seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, where he matured under the guidance of experienced veterans. Though his offensive numbers were modest—typical for a young defenseman in the KHL—scouts and coaches consistently praised his poise under pressure, ability to shut down top lines, and flashes of offensive upside.

What sets Simashev apart, however, is his ability to play in every situation. Whether it’s quarterbacking the power play, killing penalties, or defending a one-goal lead in the dying minutes, he’s got the tools to do it all.

Daniil But: A Scoring Machine in the Making

If Simashev brings the muscle and structure, Daniil But delivers flair, firepower, and finesse. Standing 6-foot-5 with a deceptively smooth skating stride and a lethal shot, But has developed a reputation as one of the most dangerous forwards of his generation.

Also coming from Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, But’s development path closely mirrored Simashev’s, and the chemistry between the two is already palpable. Over the last two seasons, But steadily climbed the KHL scoring charts for players under 21, demonstrating his goal-scoring ability with a mix of wrist shots, one-timers, and net-front presence.

His play at the World Junior Championships and in international tournaments further bolstered his stock. For Utah, But represents the type of big-bodied winger who can anchor a top-six role for years to come.

The Utah Mammoth: Building a Contender from Scratch

The relocation of the Coyotes to Salt Lake City and their rebranding as the Utah Mammoth marks a new chapter not just for the franchise but for the entire league. And while many expansion or relocated teams undergo slow rebuilds, Utah appears to be charting a different course—one built on youth, skill, and immediate impact.

Simashev and But are central to this vision.

General Manager Bill Armstrong, who made the picks in 2023 when the team was still in Arizona, has emphasized patience with his young stars. “We didn’t rush them,” Armstrong said during a recent press conference. “We gave them time to develop overseas, and now they’re ready. They’ll be arriving in Utah more mature, more confident, and more prepared to make a difference.”

Head Coach André Tourigny echoed those sentiments: “These aren’t just prospects—they’re potential stars. They’ll help define our identity as a team.”

A Cultural Shift: Embracing Russian Talent

There has always been a sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding Russian players entering the NHL. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the uncertainty around KHL contracts often lead teams to proceed cautiously. But in this case, the Utah Mammoth are all-in.

With both players expressing eagerness to come to North America, the organization has gone the extra mile to ensure a smooth transition. Language tutors, cultural liaisons, and mentorship from veteran teammates will all play a role in helping Simashev and But adjust both on and off the ice.

“They’re not just coming to play hockey,” said team executive Shane Doan. “They’re coming to build a life here. We want to support that fully.”

What It Means for the NHL and Utah Fans

The arrival of Simashev and But signals more than just a roster addition—it represents a statement of intent. The Mammoth are not content to simply exist; they aim to compete.

For Utah hockey fans, who are still getting accustomed to their new NHL identity, this injection of international talent provides immediate excitement. Jerseys with “Simashev” and “But” are already being pre-ordered. Fans are scouring highlight reels from the KHL and World Juniors, trying to get a glimpse of what’s to come.

It also bolsters the NHL’s growing global appeal. As more top prospects from Europe and elsewhere make their way into the league, the product becomes richer, more diverse, and ultimately more exciting for fans.

Looking Ahead: Expectations and Potential

While neither Simashev nor But will carry the full weight of the franchise alone, expectations are understandably high. Both are projected to play significant roles from the outset.

Simashev may be slotted into the second defensive pairing to start, with power play and penalty kill responsibilities to follow. But could land on a line with an experienced center—perhaps a veteran like Clayton Keller (if still on the roster) or Logan Cooley—to ease his transition while maximizing his offensive upside.

There will, of course, be growing pains. The smaller ice surface, faster pace, and physical nature of the NHL will challenge both players. But if they adapt quickly, Utah’s young core could rival the likes of Detroit, Buffalo, and Anaheim as the most promising in the league.

Final Thoughts

“The Russians are coming,” as the headline says—and it’s a reason to celebrate. Dmitri Simashev and Daniil But aren’t just prospects; they are the future of the Utah Mammoth, and perhaps even future faces of the NHL itself.

In a city new to hockey but rich in passion and potential, the stage is set. The spotlight will be bright. And as two of Russia’s finest lace up their skates for their North American debut, the message is clear: the Utah Mammoth are not here to rebuild quietly—they’re here to roar.