SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The Utah Hockey Club is facing a challenging stretch at home, struggling to secure wins in front of their loyal fans. Despite only managing one victory out of their first four January home games, defeating San Jose, the team has suffered defeats against Florida, Montreal, and the New York Islanders. With only three wins in their last 14 games in Salt Lake City, the team’s six home victories mark the lowest in the NHL.
“I don’t know why we’ve been struggling at home in front of our fans that have showed a lot of support for us,” forward Nick Bjugstad expressed. “I feel for them. I just think we’ll find a way, but it’s going to take some digging and looking in the mirror.”
For a team aiming to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference, the margin for error is narrowing. Surprisingly, their success on the road is what is keeping them in the playoff race, with twelve wins achieved away from home, including five consecutive victories in mid-December.
Inconsistencies in offense have hindered Utah’s ability to build momentum at home, with the team conceding an average of 3.0 goals per game while only scoring 1.8 goals in their last four home games at the Delta Center.
“Tight finishes decided late are a recurring staple at home this season,” with seven consecutive home games at one point being decided by just one goal.
Despite the setbacks, fan support remains unwavering, with Utah reporting sellout crowds of 11,131 for every home game during their inaugural season. To accommodate demand, the team has implemented community ticket programs, offering single-goal-view seats for a reduced price to local university students and hosting a college game night to engage with the community further.
Utah coach Andre Tourigny emphasized the importance of growth and building a strong relationship with fans, expressing the team’s aspirations to climb in the standings and deliver victories for their supporters.
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