Possible Texas NHL Expansion
NHL Aims to Award Potential Texas Expansion Franchise by End of Year
The NHL is targeting the end of 2024 to approve and announce a new expansion franchise in Texas, according to deputy commissioner Bill Daly The Athletic. The move comes as a Houston-based ownership group led by billionaire Dan F. pursues bringing professional hockey to the state.
Timeline for Texas Hockey's Big Moment
Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly revealed the NHL's ambitious schedule during the league's European media tour Yahoo Sports. An expansion to Texas could happen by year's end, moving faster than many expected. The league expects to provide a formal update on the proposal soon.
Houston Billionaire Leads Ownership Push
A Houston-based group backed by billionaire Dan F. is driving the expansion bid Winnipeg Free Press. The ownership group has been working to meet NHL requirements for a new franchise. They're targeting Texas as a major U.S. market with strong growth potential for professional hockey.
Why Texas Makes Sense for NHL Expansion
Texas has no current NHL team, making it an untapped major market Houston Chronicle. The state's population and wealth rival many existing hockey markets. Adding a team would give hockey fans in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio a local franchise to support.
What Happens Next in the Approval Process
If approved by year's end, the franchise could begin play in the 2025-26 season or later Beaumont Enterprise. The NHL board must vote on the expansion application. Once approved, the new team would participate in the entry draft and start building its roster.
Sentiment
NeutralPublishers
8
Articles
7
Reach
8
