​Ian Cole has joined the Chicago Blackhawks, but until the new season starts he remains one of only two players who have skated in every Utah Mammoth game. He spoke warmly of his time in Utah, offering nothing but positive reflections on his experience in the Beehive State.
“It was a huge honor to be in Utah, and obviously start from the ground up with the team,” Cole told the Deseret News on Wednesday. “It was a great experience, and it was one that I’ll always look back on with very fond memories. I’ll cherish it, 100%.”
Cole expressed his gratitude toward his former teammates, management, and ownership, noting that leaving was a “very tough decision” but acknowledging that such moves are part of the business side of professional sports. At 37, he is expected to take on a leadership role with a young Blackhawks squad. Not only is he the sole member of the defense corps born in the 1980s, he is also the only player born in the 20th Century on the team. The Blackhawks’ next-oldest defenseman is Alex Vlasic, who recently turned 25.
“I just want to step in and try to help everybody grow and become better players as best I can,” Cole said. “Get to know the teammates, get to know each one individually and figure out how best to communicate and talk to them, and watch these guys hopefully flourish into these high-end NHL defensemen.”
While many players begin to slow down around his age, Cole’s value has continued to rise. Last season he logged the fourth-most minutes of his 16-season NHL career. If he can stay healthy and play at least 70 games this season, he stands to reach all of his performance bonuses, potentially earning more than ever before. “If I can handle my business and bring a consistent product, night after night, it’s something that the coaches and teammates can rely on,” he said. “If I can play how I’ve played and continue to do what I do, I think I’m still a huge asset to a team.”
Cole sits just 10 games shy of the 1,000-game milestone—a landmark that carries significance in the NHL. Players who reach that mark are honored with a silver stick in a pregame ceremony.
Utah Mammoth defenseman Ian Cole (28) celebrated with defenseman Sean Durzi (50) after scoring during the third period of an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News.