It seems that the next two NHL expansion teams have been identified by Gary Bettman
The NHL is reportedly moving closer to announcing two new expansion teams, with Houston and Atlanta emerging as the frontrunners.
Andy Strickland of Bally Sports Midwest revealed that NHL owners are expected to meet soon to discuss and potentially approve the expansion opening. Kevin Weekes added that the league is likely to grow beyond its current 32 teams, with the possibility of reaching 34-36 teams in the near future, given the number of viable candidates beyond Houston and Atlanta.
Other cities that have been mentioned as potential expansion sites include Kansas City, Portland, and Quebec City. While there's speculation about Canada gaining an eighth team, the NHL focuses on further growing the sport in the U.S.
The success of the Vegas Golden Knights, who won the Stanley Cup in 2023, and the Seattle Kraken, who made an early playoff appearance, offers a positive outlook for any future expansion teams. With interest growing, the NHL's expansion plans could soon become a reality, significantly altering the league's landscape.
As seen on MapleLeafs Daily
The Next Two NHL Expansion Teams Appear to Have Been Identified
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 20 | 57 ANSWERS It seems that the next two NHL expansion teams have been identified by Gary Bettman Where do you think the next expansion of the NHL will be? | ||
| Houston | 30 | 52.6 % |
| Atlanta | 15 | 26.3 % |
| Other | 12 | 21.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
