Utah Mammoth top centers Logan Cooley, Jack McBain, Barrett Hayton day-to-day after preseason injuries

The Utah Mammoth have reported multiple injuries following their first preseason game against the Colorado Avalanche. Top-line center Logan Cooley, along with centers Jack McBain and Barrett Hayton, were all designated day-to-day with undisclosed injuries.

Mammoth head coach Andre Tourigny emphasized caution and hopes their absences are brief, while defenseman Nate Schmidt is expected to return to strengthen the team’s defensive lineup. Fans and analysts are closely monitoring the situation, as the health of these key players will be vital for Utah’s early-season success.

Mammoth closely monitor top-line centers Logan Cooley, Jack McBain, and Barrett Hayton after preseason injuries

Cooley suffered a hit from behind by Avalanche winger Zakhar Bardakov and left the ice immediately.

He was a standout performer last season, tallying 25 goals and 65 points in 75 games, and also contributed 12 points in 10 games at the World Championship this summer. Tourigny expressed his displeasure at the hit and remains optimistic that Cooley’s absence will be short-lived.Jack McBain and Barrett Hayton, who play the two center spots behind Cooley, were also listed day-to-day with minor injuries. Both players set career-high scoring marks last season while appearing in all 82 games, Hayton with 20 goals and 46 points, and McBain with 13 goals and 27 points.

The Mammoth will monitor their progress closely, as missing all three top-line centers, even temporarily, could pose a challenge for the team in the early regular season.

Their quick recovery will be key to maintaining team chemistry and offensive consistency.

Nate Schmidt’s return strengthens Utah Mammoth defense and team outlook

On a positive note, defenseman Nate Schmidt is expected back in the lineup after previously being day-to-day. Schmidt, who won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers last season, recorded 19 points in 80 regular-season games and 12 points in 23 playoff contests.

He could provide stability on the back end and compete for the second-pair left-defense position against rookie Dmitri Simashev.While the Mammoth face a short-term challenge with their top centers sidelined, the team is hopeful that Cooley, McBain, and Hayton will return quickly. Schmidt’s return adds depth and experience to the defensive unit, giving Utah a stronger foundation heading into the 2025–26 regular season. Fans will be watching closely to see how the Mammoth navigate these early preseason injury concerns and adjust their lines accordingly.Also Read: NHL insider confirms Sidney Crosby trade to the Montreal Canadiens a real possibility