Franchise Cornerstone scores Utah Hockey Club's first goal

The Utah Hockey Club has officially opened its first season and, fittingly, a future cornerstone of the franchise scored the team's first ever goal. Forward Dylan Guenther just signed an eight-year contract extension with Utah, and his first goal in franchise history became the latest trivia answer.

At the start of the first frame against the Chicago Blackhawks, Günther took a one-time shot above the faceoff circle, but it found its way into the net. The sold-out Delta Center exploded with cheers as the playoff atmosphere took hold.

Supported by defenders Michael Kesselring and Logan Cooley, it was these two who got the game going.

Cooley received a breakout pass behind his own net and initiated the transition into the attack. Cooley passed the puck from the Kesselring, who carried the puck into the Blackhawks' zone before quickly firing a pass to Guenther.

He didn't appear to be quite ready, but Guenther had enough of a shot to beat Blackhawks goaltender Petr Mrazek. It was Utah's second shot on goal of the game and the perfect start to the season.

Not only does Utah have high hopes for its team, but Guenther has also received some praise since signing an eight-year contract worth $7,142,875 per year. Utah captain Clayton Keller said Guenther has the skills to score 50 goals in a single season.

An early goal not only gave Utah the lead, but also gave the lively Delta Center crowd even more momentum.

After years of futility as the Arizona Coyotes, the Utah Hockey Club is looking forward to stability and hopefully great success.

Captain Keller followed up Guenther's goal with his own, giving Utah a 2-0 lead before the Blackhawks could even get a second shot.

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