According to ESPN, the NHL is actively exploring expansion opportunities, with Houston and Austin, Texas, emerging as leading candidates for new franchises. The discussion took place during the NHL board of governors meeting Tuesday in New York.
Player Preference and Expansion Fee
An NHL Players' Association poll indicates that Houston is the clear favorite among players, with 34.3% supporting expansion there. Quebec City received 16.9% support, while Atlanta, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Austin were also mentioned as potential locations.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently stated that the league has received inquiries from various cities and owners across North America. He emphasized that any expansion would require a $2 billion fee to be viable.
Houston's Hockey History
Houston has a notable hockey past. The Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association (WHA) played from 1972 to 1978, winning two consecutive championships led by Gordie Howe, who played alongside his sons Marty and Mark. The Aeros later operated as a minor-league franchise in the International Hockey League and American Hockey League from 1994 to 2013 before relocating to Des Moines, Iowa.
Billionaire Interest
According to TSN, the league met with a group led by billionaire Dan Friedkin about a year ago to gauge interest in bringing a team to Houston. Friedkin, who owns a 98.8% stake in English Premier League club Everton, has a net worth of $6.4 billion.
The NHL has remained at 32 teams since the Seattle Kraken joined in the 2021-22 season, following the Vegas Golden Knights' debut in 2017-18.
