NHL executive says a Texas expansion team could be approved and announced by year’s end

The NHL is contemplating approving an expansion team based in Texas by the end of the current year, according to deputy commissioner Bill Daly's recent remarks. During an interview at the NHL's European media tour in Munich, Daly revealed that a team selection update is anticipated in the coming weeks from the Houston-based investment group led by Dan Friedkin.

Friedkin's firm has already committed to the $2 billion expansion fee, contingent on securing an arena in either Houston or Austin and receiving final approval from the NHL's Board of Governors for adding the 33rd team. Daly stated that the league is actively working with the group and plans to reconvene with them in September to assess their progress and assist if necessary.

If approved by the board, the NHL could announce the expansion to Texas by the end of the current calendar year, with the team potentially debuting within a three-year timeframe. Daly also mentioned that the NHL is engaged in discussions with ownership groups in Phoenix and Atlanta, aiming to finalize the league's 34th team, with preliminary projections suggesting the new team may commence play in the 2029-30 season.