The Utah Hockey Club secured goaltender Karel Vejmelka with a five-year contract extension on Thursday, part of a series of moves aimed at retaining key potential free agents after just one season in Salt Lake City.

Vejmelka’s new deal is valued at $23.75 million, according to someone familiar with the agreement.

“Karel’s confidence sets the tone for our team each day,” said Chris Armstrong, president of hockey operations. “It allows our team to play to its strengths, knowing he’s there to make crucial saves. Vej has earned this commitment, and we’re thankful to have him as a core part of our future.”

The 28-year-old goalie will have a $4.75 million salary cap hit from the start of the next NHL season through 2030. The extension is considered the most significant move, locking in Utah’s top goalie during his prime as the team aims to become a playoff contender. By then, the team is also expected to have a permanent name.

“Karel has played a key role in our success this season,” general manager Bill Armstrong said. “He’s a talented goaltender who competes every night and solidifies one of the most crucial positions on our team.”

Earlier this week, Utah signed Olli Maatta to a three-year contract, along with defenseman Ian Cole and forward Alexander Kerfoot to deals through 2025-26.

Maatta received $10.5 million after thriving following an October trade from Detroit. The 30-year-old Finn, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with Pittsburgh in 2016 and 2017, has revitalized his career with Utah.

Kerfoot and Cole will each carry a $3 million cap hit next season. Armstrong praised Kerfoot, who turns 31 in August, as a respected leader and versatile player. Cole, 36, is entering his 16th NHL season and signed a $2.8 million deal with $200,000 in performance bonuses as part of an over-35 contract.

“Ian’s championship experience, work ethic, and leadership are valuable to our team,” Bill Armstrong said. “We’re excited to keep him as we fight for a playoff spot.”

Utah, formerly the Arizona Coyotes before relocating to Salt Lake City, sits on the fringe of the Western Conference wild-card race. Their playoff hopes convinced the front office to avoid selling off players ahead of Friday’s trade deadline.