Artem Duda to Make NHL Debut Thursday
The 20-year-old defenseman is set to play his first game for the Utah Mammoth against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Hockey
Artem Duda will make his NHL debut with the Utah Mammoth on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The organization announced the roster decision for the rookie following the team's Thursday morning skate.
Why it matters
Duda, a former second-round draft pick, joins the lineup after gaining professional experience in the AHL earlier this season. His arrival provides the Mammoth with additional depth on the blue line as they prepare for the matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Duda recorded 1 goal and 2 assists in 6 AHL games this season after scoring 2 goals and 7 total points in 12 games for Toronto Metropolitan University. He was selected 36th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft and previously appeared in 14 KHL games.
The players
Artem Duda
He is a 20-year-old professional hockey player who was a second-round draft selection by the Arizona Coyotes.
Utah Mammoth
This is the NHL franchise that features Artem Duda on its active roster.
Pittsburgh Penguins
This is the opposing NHL franchise that will face the Utah Mammoth during Duda's debut game.
The details
The 20-year-old defenseman spent the second half of the 2023-24 season competing for Toronto Metropolitan University. He transitions to the NHL level following his brief development stint with the Tucson Roadrunners in the AHL.
Timeline
Artem Duda was selected 36th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft.
Duda played for Toronto Metropolitan University during the 2023-24 season.
Artem Duda will debut for the Utah Mammoth on October 29, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Duda's promotion follows the standard development arc for prospects selected in the 2022 NHL Draft. His performance will be a critical factor in determining how the Utah Mammoth manage their roster depth for the remainder of the season.
Duda will be expected to contribute on the blue line immediately, potentially shifting current defensive pairings for the Utah Mammoth. Fantasy owners should monitor his ice time and power-play usage during this opening game to gauge his long-term value.
The takeaway
Rookies often face a steep adjustment period when transitioning from university or minor league play to the NHL. Duda will need to leverage his KHL and AHL experience to adapt quickly to the pace of this debut game.
Further reading
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Source note: This article includes information reported by Sportsnet.
