Sean Durzi (left) scores the winning goal against Rangers. © APA / BRUCE BENNETT

Mammoth put the brakes on Rangers after Winter Classic euphoria

The Utah Mammoth gave the New York Rangers a real thrashing on Monday.

06 January 2026

By: nhl/sn

After the Rangers deeply impressed the ice hockey world with their impressive 5-1 victory in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic against the Florida Panthers last Friday, they had to admit defeat to the Mammoth in their home arena, Madison Square Garden, losing 2-3 in overtime.

Sean Durzi was the hero of the evening for the visiting team. The defenseman not only had luck on his side when his team successfully killed off a penalty he himself had drawn late in the third period, but he also became the hero of the hour in overtime. Just 1:06 into the extra period, Durzi scored the game-winning goal and dedicated it to his recently deceased grandfather.

Nick Schmaltz (left) celebrates with goal scorer Durzi. © APA / BRUCE BENNETT

In the decisive moment, Durzi skated towards the net, Nick Schmaltz found him at the right post, where he simply had to push the puck over the line. Previously, Lawson Crouse had successfully controlled the puck in the slot, pulled it out, and fed it to Schmaltz in the left face-off circle.

“Crouser winning that battle was a crucial play. And then number 8 (Schmaltz) has eyes on all sides of his head, so I knew he’d find me if I made a run,” Durzi recounted. “One crisp, hard pass—and the rest is history.” Schmaltz’s assist also marked his 100th point in a Utah jersey (34 goals, 66 assists).