NHL Commissioner Says Texas Expansion Team Could Play By 2029-30 Season
The NHL is reportedly expanding to either Houston or Austin as early as the end of 2026, and the team could play by 2029-30.
NHL Commissioner Bill Daly announced that the league is considering expanding to either Houston or Austin by the conclusion of the 2026 season. The announcement was made during the NHL's European Media Tour. The expansion team will be paid for with a $2 billion fee provided by Friedkin’s Pursuit Sports. The specific location of the new stadium will determine the final decision, which will require approval from the NHL’s Board of Governors.
Daly stated, "We’re moving forward in Texas," and added that they expect to present their case to the board in September. If approved, the team could start playing as early as the 2029-30 season. Daly also mentioned that the NHL is exploring the possibility of another expansion team in either Phoenix or Atlanta, with discussions ongoing. The Texas expansion team would be the 33rd franchise in the NHL.
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