NHL fans anticipating new teams in the near future will need to temper their excitement. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman addressed the media before Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, where the Carolina Hurricanes face the Vegas Golden Knights. His comments on expansion indicated that, despite interest from various markets, the NHL has no immediate plans to add teams.
Bettman expressed, “The interest is strong. There are a number of places and people who are interested in it. We’re not ready to expand yet, but we are exploring those expressions of interest.”
NHL Expansion Plans on Hold
Currently, Atlanta and Houston emerge as the leading candidates for any potential expansion. Atlanta, if considered, would be granted a franchise for the third time. The city previously hosted the Atlanta Flames from 1972 to 1980, now known as the Calgary Flames, and the Atlanta Thrashers from 1999 to 2011, who relocated and became the Winnipeg Jets.
On the other hand, Houston is vying for its inaugural NHL franchise. This move would mark the area’s first professional hockey team since the Houston Aeros played in the WHA. Another contender for expansion is Phoenix, which lost the Coyotes franchise in 2024 due to arena issues. Following the deactivation of the team, Ryan Smith paid a staggering $1.2 billion to relocate all assets to Utah, giving rise to the new franchise called the Utah Mammoth.
Recent Expansion History
The NHL has expanded twice in the past nine years, adding the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017 and the Seattle Kraken in 2021. The Golden Knights have experienced notable success, clinching the Stanley Cup in 2023 and making it to the Finals on three occasions, with only one season without a playoff appearance. In contrast, the Kraken have participated in the playoffs only once in their five-year history.
Conclusion
While the NHL is not looking to expand at present, the interest from various cities remains significant. Future developments regarding potential franchises may arise as the NHL continues to explore opportunities in this area.
