NHL exploring Texas expansion opportunities in Houston, Austin
The NHL is evaluating Houston and Austin for a second Texas franchise. Commissioner Gary Bettman has initiated a six-month process with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family. The deal involves a $3.5B all-in commitment to enter the league.
What changed
The league has granted the Friedkin family exclusive rights to pursue the expansion franchise for $3.5B.
Live updates
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NHL Grants Friedkin Family Exclusive Rights for Texas Expansion
confidence 100%The NHL is evaluating Houston and Austin for a second Texas franchise. Commissioner Gary Bettman has initiated a six-month process with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family. The deal involves a $3.5B all-in commitment to enter the league.
What's confirmed:
- The NHL is exploring Houston and Austin as potential sites for a new expansion franchise.
- Commissioner Gary Bettman announced a six-month evaluation process with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family.
- The NHL granted the Friedkin family exclusive rights to pursue a Texas expansion franchise with a $3.5B all-in commitment.
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NHL Evaluating Houston and Austin for Texas Expansion
confidence 100%Commissioner Gary Bettman announced the NHL is exploring a second Texas franchise in either Houston or Austin. The league has entered a six-month evaluation process with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family. A new team would join the Dallas Stars in the state.
What's confirmed:
- NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated the league is exploring expansion opportunities in Houston and Austin.
- The league has entered a six-month evaluation process with the Friedkin family.
- Billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family have agreed upon a framework for potential expansion.
- A franchise in Houston or Austin would be the second NHL team in Texas.
- Houston previously hosted two professional hockey teams named the Aeros.
Still unconfirmed:
- The NHL would become the largest professional sports league in North America if it expands.