The Utah Mammoth have made roster adjustments as the NHL prepares to resume play following the Olympic break. Defenseman Maksymilian Szuber has been recalled to the NHL squad, while Scott Perunovich has been reassigned to the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, Tucson Roadrunners.
Szuber’s Performance and Role
Szuber has started the season impressively in Tucson, tallying 10 goals and 24 points over 44 AHL games, alongside 38 penalty minutes and a plus-five rating. The German defender utilizes his considerable size effectively, maintaining a strong presence across the ice. Szuber is recognized as Tucson’s second-leading defenseman, trailing only the top prospect Dmitry Simashev, and stands out as the only defenseman on the team with double-digit goals.
Perunovich’s Continued AHL Assignment
Scott Perunovich, a veteran defenseman with three goals and 30 points in 43 AHL games this season, has been placed on the AHL roster after unsuccessful attempts to secure a permanent NHL spot with the St. Louis Blues and New York Islanders. The 27-year-old has featured in 108 NHL games since 2021, accumulating 32 points, but has yet to make his debut with the Mammoth. His reassignment signals a continuation of his role within Tucson’s defensive lineup.
Competition for NHL Ice Time
Szuber’s recall positions him to potentially appear in his second NHL game, competing with fellow defensemen Ian Cole, Olli Maatta, and Kevin Connauton for ice time. Szuber made his NHL debut last season, registering one penalty and a minus-one rating during that outing. Perunovich will likely continue to occupy a top-four defensive role within Tucson’s AHL squad.
Implications for Team Depth and Development
This roster shift highlights the Mammoth’s ongoing efforts to balance veteran presence with developing prospects as they prepare for the NHL’s return. Szuber’s promotion demonstrates confidence in his ability to contribute at the highest level, while Perunovich’s reassignment ensures continued experience and stability for the Roadrunners. These moves could influence future decisions regarding the Mammoth’s defensive lineup and player development strategies moving forward.
ROSTER MOVE
The @utahmammoth have recalled defenseman Maksymilian Szuber from the Tucson Roadrunners (AHL)
The Mammoth have assigned defenseman Scott Perunovich to Tucson
— Utah Mammoth PR (@UtahMammoth_PR) February 22, 2026
