NHL Expansion Plans: Houston and Austin as Potential Sites
The National Hockey League (NHL) is exploring the possibility of expanding beyond its current lineup of 32 teams. Recent expansions have included the Vegas Golden Knights and the Seattle Kraken, demonstrating success in these ventures. The league is now considering further increasing the number of teams, possibly to 33 or more.
Considering Texas for NHL Expansion
According to ESPN’s Emily Kaplan, during a board of governors meeting in New York City, the NHL discussed expansion possibilities with two Texas cities: Austin and Houston. These locations are gaining attention due to Texas having just one NHL team, the Dallas Stars.
Both Austin and Houston have their own hockey history. Austin currently hosts the Texas Stars, an American Hockey League (AHL) team affiliated with the Dallas Stars, playing in the city’s suburbs. Houston’s hockey legacy includes various versions of the Houston Aeros, particularly the World Hockey Association’s team from the 1970s, which featured legendary players Gordie Howe and his sons Marty and Mark.
Benefits and Challenges
Several factors influence NHL expansion decisions, such as a rumored $2 billion expansion fee. Austin, lacking a major league team, presents an opportunity for the NHL to establish a significant presence. The NHL’s entry into Las Vegas showed similar strategic benefits, with the Golden Knights proving competitive from the start.
Conversely, Houston is a large TV market without an NHL team. Despite its size, an NHL team would face competition from established sports franchises such as the Astros, Rockets, and Texans.
Potential Destinations
While Austin and Houston are prominent options, other cities remain in the expansion conversation. Atlanta has once again appeared as a potential host, and there is ongoing interest in returning to Arizona. Quebec City and the prospect of a second team in Toronto continue to spark discussions.
Whatever decision the NHL makes, it’s clear the league is actively considering expansion as a serious possibility.
Matthew Reigle contributes to OutKick’s sports coverage.