Full Breakdown
NHL Explores Texas Expansion with Six-Month Feasibility Study
6/24/2026, 2:48:13 AM
Texas Expansion Feasibility Study
The NHL announced a six-month feasibility study to assess adding a 33rd franchise in Texas, targeting either Houston or Austin. Both cities would need a new arena. The league signed a term-sheet with the Friedkin family, whose $3.5 billion commitment covers the expansion fee and arena construction.
Recent NHL Expansion History
Since 2000 the NHL grew from 30 to 32 teams, adding Vegas (2017-18) for $500 million and Seattle (2021-22) for $650 million, amid record revenues of $7.5-$8 billion.
Principal Stakeholders
Commissioner Gary Bettman leads the process. Prospective owner Dan Friedkin, chairman of the Friedkin Group, will operate the team via Pursuit Sports. Through Pursuit Sports, the Friedkin family also controls English Premier League club Everton and Serie A side A.S. Roma. The Dallas Stars hold no territorial rights.
Financial Overview
The total investment is $3.5 billion. Prior expansion fees were $500 million (Vegas) and $650 million (Seattle). The league now has 32 teams, a $104 million salary cap for 2026-27, and projected revenues of $7.5-$8 billion.
Implications for League Size and Market
A Texas franchise could make the NHL the largest North American professional sports league by team count, expand the league’s Sun Belt footprint, and generate new revenue streams. If approved, the league would surpass the NFL as the North American sport with the most franchises.
Commissioner’s Remarks
Bettman said expansion hinges on ownership, market and arena, and that the Stars’ lack of territorial rights removes a barrier. He noted odd-team numbers need not dictate expansion. Bettman also noted that discussions with Atlanta and Arizona are ongoing but not as advanced as the Texas effort.
Owner’s Cautionary Comment
Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson called the plan “just an exploration at this stage,” emphasizing the lack of a board vote.
Unresolved Issues
Sources differ on whether a formal Board of Governors vote has occurred; the $3.5 billion fee-arena split is undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As we've talked about all along, expansion depends on ownership, market, arena and what does it do to make the league stronger,” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
- “Each city brings unique attributes that would make a new team a huge success - both have the infrastructure, passionate fan bases, and economic strength needed to support a championship-caliber franchise for years to come,” — Friedkin family statement
- “Symmetry I don't think should necessarily govern expansion,” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
- “It's just an exploration at this stage.” — Geoff Molson, Montreal Canadiens owner
- “My guess is they'll think it's good for hockey in Texas.” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
- “We have wanted for some time to bring an NHL team to Texas, and we are excited that the process has now begun.” — Friedkin family statement
Next Milestones
The league and Friedkin will finish due-diligence within six months, then present a recommendation to the Board for a vote on city, arena and fee.
