Utah Mammoth defenseman John Marino signed an eight-year extension worth $54 million, keeping him under contract through the 2035 season with an average annual value of $6.75 million. Marino, 29, posted a career-best 36 points (4 goals, 32 assists) in 80 games last season and had a +42 rating as a top-pairing blueliner. Team officials described him as a foundational piece, praising his puck-moving ability and calm under pressure. He was acquired from New Jersey in 2024 and has since become a key veteran presence for Utah, after previously playing for Pittsburgh and Dallas. The deal reflects Utah's pattern of locking in core players long-term as part of building a sustained competitive window. The extension keeps Marino at the center of Utah's plans for the early to mid-2030s.