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Friedkin Family Targets NHL Expansion, Austin or Houston

6/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Friedkin family secured an NHL expansion franchise in Texas, targeting Austin and Houston, whose history includes WHA Aeros and a club that folded in 2013.
The NHL board discussed adding a team in either city while a decision remains pending.
Commissioner Gary Bettman said each city would need an arena and a $3.5 billion fee.
Austin hosts the Stars AHL team and is the largest market without a major team.

History

Historical Context

In 1992 the NHL added the San Jose Sharks and Ottawa Senators, each paying a $45 million expansion fee, the first growth since the league’s 1990 plan to reach 30 clubs. The Friedkin family’s 2024 proposal for Austin or Houston copies that model, seeking a $3.5 billion fee and arena guarantees to spark a similar revenue boost and give Texas its first major-league NHL team.

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Story summary

The Friedkin family secured an NHL expansion franchise in Texas, targeting Austin and Houston, whose history includes WHA Aeros and a club that folded in 2013.
The NHL board discussed adding a team in either city while a decision remains pending.
Commissioner Gary Bettman said each city would need an arena and a $3.5 billion fee.
Austin hosts the Stars AHL team and is the largest market without a major team.

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