The Utah Mammoth traded winger JJ Peterka to the Boston Bruins on Friday, June 26, 2026, in exchange for a significant haul of draft picks, according to KSL Sports. The move follows a single season for the 24-year-old German-born forward in Utah, where he struggled to find his footing within the team's system.
Details of the trade agreement
The trade, which was reported by NHL insider Frank Seravalli, brings several high-value assets to the Utah roster. As part of the agreement, the Mammoth will receive Boston's first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, which is the 23rd overall selection. This addition comes as the team continues its heavy activity during the draft proceedings.
Additional draft pick acquisitions
In addition to the immediate 2026 selection, Utah also secured the rights to a conditional first-round pick from the Florida Panthers. The 2028 Florida pick is lottery protected; however, if that pick lands within the top 10 of the draft order, it will convert into an unprotected Bruins first-round pick for the 2029 season.
Peterka's history with Utah
Peterka's departure marks the end of a brief tenure in Utah. The winger arrived in the franchise during the 2025 offseason via a trade that saw Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring sent to the Buffalo Sabres. During his lone season with the Mammoth, Peterka played all 82 regular-season games and signed a five-year, $38.5 million contract.
Performance and coaching challenges
Despite producing 25 goals and 22 assists, reports indicated that the speedster had difficulty fully assimilating into the lineup managed by head coach André Tourigny. KSL Sports noted that his one-year stop in Utah proved to be a poor fit for both the player and the up-and-coming franchise.
Mammoth draft day activity
The trade is part of a highly active period for the Utah Mammoth during the 20\u002026 NHL Draft. On the same day as the Peterka trade, the team also announced the selection of Ethan Belchetz with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the draft. Belchetz, identified as one of the premier forwards available, joins a roster that has seen significant recent movement.
Acquisition of Sebastian Cossa
Further bolstering their roster depth on draft day, the Mammoth also completed an acquisition for goaltender Sebastian Cossa from the Detroit Red Wings. These moves, combined with the Peterka trade, highlight a strategic focus on accumulating draft capital and young talent.
Peterka brings significant NHL experience to Boston, having played 238 games with the Buffalo Sabres after being drafted 34th overall in 2020. During his time in Buffalo, he recorded 150 points, consisting of 67 goals and 83 assists.
As the 2026 NHL Draft continues through Saturday, June 27, attention remains on whether the Mammoth will pursue further trades using their newly acquired first-round assets.
