Ken Holland Attends Utah Hockey Camp, Sparks Speculation About Future

Ken Holland is attending camp this week as a guest, according to a report by Friedman, due to his connections within the organization. “There’s nothing formal regarding a position,” Friedman said. “Holland has options, so we’ll see how things unfold for him.”

At 68, Holland brings a wealth of experience, having spent over two decades as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings, where he led the team to four Stanley Cup championships. More recently, he helped guide the Edmonton Oilers to the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, where they came back from a 0-3 deficit in the series but ultimately lost Game 7 to the Florida Panthers.

After parting ways with the Oilers following that season, Holland has not officially retired. His recent appearance in Salt Lake City, alongside Utah Hockey Club president Chris Armstrong, has fueled speculation that he might be exploring new opportunities, possibly with the newly relocated franchise, previously known as the Arizona Coyotes.

However, Brogan Houston of Deseret News Sports tempered the excitement, reporting that Holland’s visit may not indicate any imminent decisions. “Holland is here,” Houston noted. “He told me he has attended NHL training camps every year since 1976 and wanted to be part of one again this year. It doesn’t seem like he’s committed to joining the team, but he is sporting a Utah Hockey Club jacket.”