Houston emerges as Strong Contender for NHL Expansion team
Houston could be the next city to join the ranks of the National Hockey League. Billionaire Dan Friedkin, CEO of The Friedkin Group (TFG), is reportedly exploring bringing an NHL expansion team to the city.While attempts to reach The Friedkin Group for comment have been unsuccessful, the NHL has confirmed meetings with the group regarding potential interest in a Houston franchise. This move would mark another meaningful investment in professional sports for Friedkin, whose company already owns Italian Serie A club AS Roma and English Premier League club Everton.
Friedkin Group’s Growing Sports Portfolio Fuels Houston NHL Hopes
The Friedkin Group’s foray into sports ownership began in 2020 with the acquisition of AS Roma. TFG further solidified its presence in the sports world by becoming the majority owner of Everton in 2024. The group also played a crucial role in securing £350 million for a new stadium for the English club. These investments demonstrate Friedkin’s commitment to professional sports, making Houston hockey fans optimistic about the possibility of an NHL team.
NHL Commissioner Downplays Imminent Expansion Plans
despite the promising developments in Houston, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has recently tempered expectations regarding league expansion. In October, he stated that expansion was not a “front-burner topic” for the league and that the topic had not been discussed at the board of governors meeting. The NHL’s immediate priorities include negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the NHL Players’ Association, with formal discussions expected to begin on April 1, and securing a new Canadian TV deal.
Expansion Could Mirror Vegas and Seattle Entry, but Staggered
The NHL has expanded from 30 to 32 teams with the additions of the Vegas Golden Knights (2017-18 season) and the Seattle Kraken (2021-22 season). The expansion fees for Vegas and Seattle were $500 million and $650 million, respectively. If the NHL decides to expand further, it might consider adding two clubs but staggering their start dates to ensure a smooth transition.
Atlanta,New Orleans,Other Cities Also in the Mix
While Houston is a strong contender,other cities are also vying for an NHL expansion team. Atlanta, despite two previous failed NHL attempts, remains a possibility.Louisiana Governor Jeff landry recently announced an “extremely productive call” with the NHL concerning a team in New Orleans. At the 2024 NHL All-Star weekend, Commissioner bettman mentioned Omaha, Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Salt lake City as other cities that have expressed interest. Salt Lake City ultimately landed a team through the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes.
Besides Houston, which othre cities are mentioned as potential candidates for an NHL expansion team, and what factors might influence the NHL’s decision?
Houston emerges as strong Contender for NHL Expansion team
Houston could be the next city to join the ranks of the National Hockey League.billionaire Dan Friedkin, CEO of The Friedkin group (TFG), is reportedly exploring bringing an NHL expansion team to the city.While attempts to reach the Friedkin Group for comment have been unsuccessful, the NHL has confirmed meetings with the group regarding potential interest in a Houston franchise. This move would mark another meaningful investment in professional sports for Friedkin, whose company already owns Italian Serie A club AS Roma and English Premier League club Everton.
Friedkin Group’s Growing Sports Portfolio Fuels Houston NHL Hopes
The Friedkin Group’s foray into sports ownership began in 2020 with the acquisition of AS Roma. TFG further solidified its presence in the sports world by becoming the majority owner of Everton in 2024. The group also played a crucial role in securing £350 million for a new stadium for the english club. These investments demonstrate Friedkin’s commitment to professional sports, making Houston hockey fans optimistic about the possibility of an NHL team.
NHL Commissioner Downplays Imminent Expansion Plans
despite the promising developments in Houston, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has recently tempered expectations regarding league expansion. In October, he stated that expansion was not a “front-burner topic” for the league and that the topic had not been discussed at the board of governors meeting. The NHL’s immediate priorities include negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the NHL players’ Association, with formal discussions expected to begin on April 1, and securing a new Canadian TV deal.
Expansion Could Mirror Vegas and Seattle Entry, but Staggered
The NHL has expanded from 30 to 32 teams with the additions of the Vegas Golden Knights (2017-18 season) and the Seattle Kraken (2021-22 season). The expansion fees for Vegas and Seattle were $500 million and $650 million, respectively. If the NHL decides to expand further, it might consider adding two clubs but staggering their start dates to ensure a smooth transition.
Atlanta,New Orleans,other Cities Also in the Mix
While Houston is a strong contender,other cities are also vying for an NHL expansion team. Atlanta, despite two previous failed NHL attempts, remains a possibility.Louisiana Governor Jeff landry recently announced an ”extremely productive call” with the NHL concerning a team in New Orleans. At the 2024 NHL All-Star weekend, Commissioner bettman mentioned Omaha, Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Salt lake City as other cities that have expressed interest. Salt Lake City ultimately landed a team through the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes.
Q&A: Houston’s NHL Dreams
Q: Who is Dan Friedkin, and why is his interest in an NHL team meaningful?
A: Dan Friedkin is the CEO of The Friedkin Group (TFG), a billionaire with a growing portfolio of sports teams, including AS Roma (soccer) and everton (soccer).His proven track record of investing in sports makes his interest in bringing an NHL team to Houston a major progress.
Q: What are the main obstacles facing Houston’s NHL bid?
A: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has downplayed the urgency of expansion, citing priorities like a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and a Canadian TV deal. Additionally, the league is assessing other potential expansion cities.
Q: What’s the typical cost of an NHL expansion team?
A: The expansion fees for the Vegas Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken were $500 million and $650 million, respectively. The fee could be higher now.
Q: Which other cities are competing for an NHL expansion team?
A: Besides Houston, Atlanta, new Orleans, Omaha, Kansas City, and Cincinnati are also in the running. Salt lake City recently secured a team through relocation. Atlanta has had two prior failed attempts.
Q: what’s the timeline for a potential Houston NHL team?
A: There’s no set timeline, but Commissioner Bettman’s statements suggest that expansion is not an immediate priority. The negotiation of the CBA and the TV deal will likely influence any future expansion decisions. Fans should also be aware that the construction of a suitable arena could be a significant factor in time to market.
Stay tuned for further developments as Houston’s NHL bid progresses! The dream of NHL hockey in Houston could become a reality.
